Validating the Interpretations and Uses of Test Scores

To validate an interpretation or use of test scores is to evaluate the plausibility of the claims based on the scores. An argument‐based approach to validation suggests that the claims based on the test scores be outlined as an argument that specifies the inferences and supporting assumptions needed to get from test responses to score‐based interpretations and uses. Validation then can be thought of as an evaluation of the coherence and completeness of this interpretation/use argument and of the plausibility of its inferences and assumptions. In outlining the argument‐based approach to validation, this paper makes eight general points. First, it is the proposed score interpretations and uses that are validated…