Achieving Equality of Opportunity: How Credentialing Bodies Address Fairness in Testing by Mitigating Bias in Test Development Strategies

The key tenant of fairness in testing is to optimize performance for all qualified test takers by identifying and eliminating construct irrelevant obstacles that may hinder comparable and valid interpretation of test scores. All steps in the test development process must align with bias-free design strategies and support standards for fairness in testing.

Bias and sensitivity reviews are not new concepts for test sponsors to conduct and document when validating test content. However, with diversity, equity, and inclusion considerations at the forefront of public awareness, it has become clear that there is limited authoritative guidance on how to educate and train practitioners to review and detect potential bias in test content. There is equally limited guidance on ensuring that diversity and inclusion factors are considered throughout the test development cycle. To achieve fairness in testing, bias-free design strategies and support standards must be at the forefront of the test development process.

Attend this session to learn guidance for assembling and engaging subject-matter experts in all facets of test development. Panelists will share firsthand experiences and offer practical advice to assist test developers through a solution-driven pathway to address this critical component of content development and validation processes.

Key questions this session will address include:
Why is it important to make deliberate efforts to minimize bias in test development activities?
What techniques should be used to develop an unbiased view of individuals and subgroups in the population of qualified candidates?
How can the overall industry support test developers with guidance activities and educational material?

Thank you Excelsoft for sponsoring the Test Development and Administration track.