Research note: establishing construct and concurrent validity of Pearson Test of English Academic

Abstract

Pearson Test of English Academic (PTE Academic) is a computer-based international English language test launched globally in 2009. The purpose of the test is to assess English language competence in the context of academic programs of study where English is the language of instruction. This paper reports the processes involved in collecting evidence to support the validity claims of the test for that purpose. The paper begins with a review of the definitions of and the threats to construct validity; defines the construct validity of PTE Academic; and then reports both qualitative and quantitative evidence (including research methods, results, and revisions) which Pearson have gathered to support the construct validity of PTE Academic. In addition, the concurrent validity of PTE Academic is presented by comparing PTE Academic with other externally established criteria or tests.