Introduction - hdbk12050007

DOE-HDBK-1205-97

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 Purpose

The purpose of this Guide to Good Practices is to provide direction to training personnel in

the broad areas of design, development, and implementation of examinations.

1.2 Discussion

Nuclear facilities spend a significant amount of training resources testing trainees. Tests

are used for employee selection, qualification, requalification, certification and recertification,

and promotion. Ineffective testing procedures, or inappropriate interpretation of test results,

can have significant effects on both human performance and facility operations. Test

development requires unique skills, and as with any skill, training and experience are

needed to develop the skills. Test development, test use, test result interpretation, and test

refinement, like all other aspects of the systematic approach to training, should be part of an

ongoing, systematic process.

For some users this document will provide a review of ideas and principles with which they

are already familiar; for others it will present new concepts. While not intended to provide

in-depth coverage of test theory design and development, it should provide developers,

instructors, and evaluators with a foundation on which to develop sound examinations.