Test Specifications

DOE-HDBK-1205-97

Allow sufficient time for the trainees to complete the open reference questions. The more

familiar trainees are with the references, the faster they can complete the items. However,

be cautious the test does not become a time test. Unless time is a crucial factor in the

task, it should not be made a part of the test.

4.2 Test Specifications

Test specifications are a blueprint, or plan, that clearly defines the scope and content of the

test. It is the documentation for the decisions made in the initial planning stages. Just as it

is important to develop learning objectives before instruction is planned, it is necessary to

develop test specifications prior to test construction.

The development of test specifications is a vital step in the testing process. Test

specifications provide two important checks on the entire test mechanism. They are:

An explicit, documented link between each test item and a learning objective

that is verified to be relevant, important, and based on the task

Consistency in the way tests are developed at a facility.

Consistency will assist in reducing biases in test content due to instructor likes and dislikes

or the changing of personnel at the facility. The process ensures all decisions for job

placement are based on trainee performance on the same body of knowledge and ability,

even though specific topics covered on individual tests may differ.

Developing Test Specifications

Since learning objectives complete with action statements, conditions, and standards

already exist, the major portion of test planning is accomplished. What remains is to

determine which objectives will be covered in the test, how many items will be included,

and which test items are of relative importance. When developing test specifications for

exams, it is important to recognize that the knowledge and skills for all learning objectives

must be tested at some point in the training.