Test Directions - hdbk12050023

DOE-HDBK-1205-97

While most instructors are aware of the physical testing environment, many do not give

sufficient consideration to the emotional environment they establish. The testing

environment should be conducive to effecting testing. Making the purpose of the test clear

and emphasizing the need for accurate test results can create a good emotional climate,

which is important in building motivation, reducing anxiety, and improving communications.

Test Directions

Each test should have clearly written directions. These directions should tell the trainee

what to do, how to do it, and how to record the responses. General directions should be

given for the test, with specific directions given for each section, subpart, and item format.

Though the instructor should orally present the directions prior to the start of the test, the

written directions should be clear enough to enable the trainees to complete the test

without any further instructions. The trainees should be given time to read the instructions

and ask questions before the test is started.

Questions that require mathematical calculations pose a unique problem. Suppose a

trainee performs a complex equation using a calculator in one step, while the answer key

breaks down the calculation into individual steps. The resulting answer will be different from

the answer provided in the answer key, since the answer key will break the answer down

into individual steps. Each step is then calculated separately and rounded to a significant

digit. Rounding of answers (or individual step answers) can cause an otherwise correct

answer to be marked as wrong, because the answer key specifies a discrete number.

Therefore, precision or accuracy of answers needs to be addressed in the test directions

and in the answer key.

Inform the trainees that they may ask questions during the test. Avoid giving individualized

assistance by providing any clarifying information from individually asked questions to the

entire group.

Trainees should be told the value of test items and how they will be scored. The trainee

should know whether partial credit will be given, what degree of precision is required,

whether units must be identified (such as psi, ohms, rem), and, for calculations, if work must

be shown. Time limits should be stated.