Bias

From LiteracyTentWiki

Bias AleAssessment

A situation that occurs in testing when items systematically measure differently for different ethnic, gender, or age groups. Test developers reduce bias by analyzing item data separately for each group, then identifying and discarding items that appear to be biased.

---

In psychometrics, bias is the negative outcome associated with differential item functioning. When statistical analysis of test items reveals that there are statistical differences associated with the probability that equal-ability individuals from different groups will answer the same question correct, bias is present when the item puts an individual from one group at a disadvantage due to inappropriateness or cultural unfamiliarity. 2/7/2005, April L. Zenisky.

---

Back to Assessment Glossary

Back to ALEGlossary