Dynamic testing : practical solutions to some concerns

Abstract

Although the concept of dynamic testing is generally well supported, some concerns have been raised about the general and more widespread practical application and use of these procedures. The main problem areas that have been noted are the amount of time needed to administer dynamic assessment measures (compared with standard tests), the lack of standardisation of procedures (impacting on the accuracy of measurement and interpretation) and the limited validity information available for dynamic measures. This article provides background on and research results of the Learning Potential Computerised Adaptive Test (LPCAT), a dynamic learning potential test. The methodology used in this instrument addresses some of the concerns that have been noted about dynamic assessment, namely the use of standardised procedures; the improvement of measurement accuracy with the use of Item Response Theory (IRT); and the use of Computerised Adaptive Testing (CAT) to improve the time efficiency of dynamic testing and obtaining empirical research results for construct and predictive validity.