Six Principal Educational Uses of Tests
1. To determine readiness for instructional programs. Some screening
tests are used to separate those who are prepared for an academic or training
program from those who are not. Examinees either “pass” or “fail” the test, and
the degree of success or failure may not be deemed important.
2. To classify or place individuals in appropriate language classes. It
tries to distinguish degrees o f proficiency so that examinees may be
assigned to specific sections or activities on the basis of their current level
of competence.
3. To diagnose the individual’s specific strengths and weaknesses. It generally
consists of several short but reliable subtests measuring different language
skills or components, of a single broad skill.
4. To measure aptitude for learning. Still another kind of screening
test is used to predict future performance.
5. To measure the extent of student achievement of the instructional
goals. Achievement tests are used to indicate group or individual progress.
6. To evaluate the effectiveness of instruction. Other achievement
tests are used exclusively to assess the degree of success not of individuals
but of the instructional program itself.
