2. THE PURPOSES OF TESTING
There are several reasons for using tests in job and training environments. These include:
• Trainee assessment
• Trainee selection and placement
• Trainee motivation
• Instructional improvement
• Program evaluation
• Testing as a teaching instrument.
These reasons each have their benefits and are applicable to the development and conduct of DOE training programs. In a program based on the systematic approach to training, tests are normally designed and developed for the purpose of trainee assessment. However, the other reasons listed can also be acieved by analyzing and interpreting the test results.
2.1 Trainee Assessment
When designing a test, the purpose of the test should always be to evaluate which learning objectives have been met and therefore the knowledge acquired or which tasks or partial tasks a trainee is qualified to perform. However, the results of the test may be used to tell us more than that when combined with other evaluation results. For example, results may indicate that:
• the trainee qualifies for advanced placement or exception
• the material on a particular subject needs upgrading
• a particular test question is poorly worded.
Defines standard
Replaced/Superseded by document(s)
Cancelled by
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| File | MIME type | Size (KB) | Language | Download | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DoE Guide to Good Practices for the Design, Development and Implementation of Examinations.pdf | application/pdf | 230.62 KB | English | DOWNLOAD! |
Provides definitions
Cover images
Foreword
1. This Department of Energy (DOE) Handbook is approved for use by all DOE Components and their contractors. The Handbook incorporates editorial changes to DOESTD- 1011-92, Guide to Good Practices for The Design, Development, and Implementation of Examinations, and supersedes DOE-STD-1011-92. Technical content of this Handbook has not changed from the original technical standard. Changes are primarily editorial improvements, redesignation of the standard to a Handbook, and format changes to conform with current Technical Standards Program procedures.
2. This technical standard provides guidance to DOE staff and contractors that can be used to modify existing programs or to develop new programs. DOE contractors should not feel obligated to adopt all parts of this guide; rather, they can use the information to develop programs that apply to their facility. This guide can be used as an aid in the construction and administration of written, oral, and performance examinations. Course designers, developers, instructors, and training managers may find this guide useful.