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The Standard Problem: Meaning and Values in Measurement and Evaluation

Author(s):
Messick, Samuel J.
Publication Year:
1974
Report Number:
RB-74-44
Source:
ETS Research Bulletin
Document Type:
Report
Page Count:
38
Subject/Key Words:
Evaluation, Psychometrics, Testing Problems

Abstract

The term "standard" is intended not only in its usual dictionary meaning of "something established for use as a rule or basis of comparison in measuring or judging capacity, quantity content, extent, value, quality, etc.," but also in its more general dictionary meaning of "something used by general agreement to determine whether or not a thing is as it should be." Not only questions of meaning, but also questions of values in measurement and evaluation are dealt with here. The emphasis will be on meaning in measurement and values in evaluation, but attention will also be paid to the roles of measurement and meaning in evaluation. Construct validity is discussed as are referencing measures to interpretation and use. Referencing measures include norm-referenced tests, and criterion-referenced tests. Content as surface or structure is discussed, as are values in measurement. Sections on meaning and value in education follow. (SGK) (38pp.)

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