Computerized psychological testing: Overview and critique.

Abstract

We present an overview and a eritique of computerized psychologies! testing and assessment. Emphasis is placed on describing computer testing systems currently in place, discussing considerations (factors) in developing a computerized psychological testing system, examining the research on potential benefits and problems associated with computerized psychological testing, and discussing Ihe need for the adoption of a set of guidelines, both scientific and ethical, for computerized psychological testing. We conclude that computerized psychological testing systems have the potential of being practical, cost-effective, and psychometrically sound means of assessing individuals. The potential of computerized psychological testing can be realized if proper considerations are made in designing, developing, and implementing these testing systems, and if professional standards (guidelines) are adhered to by computer test service providers and users. Before the adoption of computerized psychological testing becomes widespread, a number of serious issues deserve the attention of professionals. Over the past two decades, the use of computers in psychological assessment has steadily increased. During this time, computers have assisted in administering and scoring tests as well as in providing interpretive reports. Some of the early work related to the use of computers in psychological assessment, for a variety of different purposes, was reported by Gedye (1968), KJeinmuntz and McLean (1968), Lang (1969), and Stillman, Roth, Colby, and Rosenbaum (1969). Sampson (1983) reported that the use of computers in the testing field began when large time-sharing computers were used to optically scan, score, and profile standardized tests. This was followed by the addition of interpretive narrative reports to these systems. More recently, tests have been administered via computer terminals. Systems for administering tests via computer terminals also incorporate test scoring and interpretation components. A number of different types of computer systems for administering, scoring, and interpreting tests are commercially available. Our purpose is to provide an overview of existing computerized psychological testing systems, to describe some of the considerations in developing and implementing a computer testing system, to discuss the potential benefits and problems associated with computerized psychological testing, and to discuss the need for strict adherence to a set of standards for the administration and interpretation of computerized psychological tests.