What is a Domain?

A test is designed to measure a particular body of knowledge, skills, abilities, or performances which are of interest to the test user.

A test domain can represent something as simple as 4th grade Mathematics, or a more abstract construct such as "intelligence."

The Domain of 4th Grade Mathematics

Construct

A construct is a theoretical idea developed to describe and to organize some aspect of existing knowledge.

Defining a construct allows us to describe and organize observed differences in behavior among people.

The Construct of Intelligence

What's in a Name?

The name of a domain carries powerful cultural meanings. When people use a test, they often interpret performance in terms of the context, meanings, and cultural sensibilities they associate with a test's name -- and a name doesn't mean the same thing to all people.

If an "intelligence test" should not be used to retain children in kindergarten, is a "readiness" test more acceptable?

Back to the beginning of What is a Test?