Test Bias

Test Bias

Test bias is common when educational IQ tests are used to test the intelligence of students. Predictive bias occurs when research is pre-conclusive on the result of the test to be done. Arthur Jensen portrays predictive bias in his article by concluding that African-American generally have lower intelligence and thus the attempts to improve the outcomes in IQ tests had already failed (Jensen, 1969). Usually, African-Americans have been identified to score less in terms of IQ tests, but the conditions have not been checked on fairness as well as addressing the reasons behind the poor performance. Generally, unbiased tests assume the equal performance of all participants before starting the test.

Test bias negatively affects the individuals who are discriminated by the terms of the test. First, bias means that one group is advantaged over their counterparts. When someone engages in an analysis where they notice cases of bias, the individuals may become discouraged. For example, self-confidence is profoundly affected by bias. Moreover, the results obtained from a biased test are not reliable. Besides, conclusions made from biased tests cannot be used with certainty in developing policies. Therefore, test bias has negative impacts both on an individual level and to the people receiving information from the test.

The best way to correct test bias is to provide fair conditions to all the participants taking a test. Conclusions should not be developed before the test has been done. Generally, all participants should be assumed to have equal capability until the results can be used to show a variation in the skills.

Legislations have, however, been put to save the field of psychology from test bias. For example, the factors that could affect the outcomes of a test are addressed before exposing an individual to a test. The legislations are necessary owing to the over-reliance of the society on test results. Generally, test bias is an issue that should be addressed to avoid relying on biased results.

In sum, unbiased tests assume the equal performance of all participants before starting the test. Test bias has negative impacts both on an individual level and to the people receiving information from the analysis. Generally, test bias is an issue that should be addressed to avoid relying on biased results.

Reference

Jensen, A. (1969). How much can we boost IQ and scholastic achievement. Harvard educational             review, 39(1), 1-123.