Standardized Achievement Testing, Aptitude Testing, and Attitude Testing: How Similar or Different are these Concepts in Educational Assessment?

Abstract

Testing is an inevitable issue in educational and psychological measurement and assessment. Over the years, several tests and testing mechanisms have been developed to assess different latent traits of learners or examinees. Of these testing forms, standardized achievement, aptitude and attitude testing have taken the forefronts in education, psychology, and research. Whereas these concepts are distinct, they, however, play similar roles which have been misconceived by many, especially those without expertise in educational assessment and measurement. The aim of this paper is to compare standardized achievement testing, aptitude testing, and attitude testing, using a narrative literature review approach. The paper provides a synthesis of gathered information that delineates conditions necessary for the utilization of each testing approach.