Test scores are commonly used to evaluate the quality of educational programs or to compare individuals or groups from one testing point to another to assess “growth.” If the scores do not support what we hope to see, a common conclusion is that some limitations must exist within the instructional program that require "fixing.”

When educators draw the above conclusion, they are assuming that the only variable that affects test scores is program quality. This, however, is not the case. Test scores more likely are the result of six factors:

1. Demographics of the test population
2. Physical environment for the testing
3. Attitudes of teachers and students toward the testing program
4. Students’ test taking skills
5. Alignment of curriculum content with test content
6. Program quality

It is important to remember that test scores report “what is.” All they give us is a status report. We must search for the answers to, “Why did we get the results we got?” Discovering the answers to that question requires process data. Assuming cause from a score is not educationally responsible.

This instrument is designed to provide information regarding the six variables that have an effect on test scores.

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