Defining Test-Score Interpretation, Use, and Claims: Delphi Study for the Validity Argument

Abstract

Validity is a fundamental consideration of test development and test evaluation. The purpose of this study is to define and reify three key aspects of validity and validation, namely test-score interpretation, test-score use, and the claims supporting interpretation and use. This study employed a Delphi methodology to explore how experts in validity and validation conceptualize test-score interpretation, use, and claims. Definitions were developed through multiple iterations of data collection and analysis. By clarifying the language used when conducting validation, validation may be more accessible to a broader audience, including but not limited to test developers, test users, and test consumers.