The ABCs of Psychometric Validity: A Practical Guide for English Language Teachers

This article offers an accessible discussion of assessment literacy and validity in the context of language testing and assessment practice. Assessment literacy can be broadly defined as the skills and knowledge teachers have about the functions and roles of assessment in educational contexts. It is also related to the ability to choose various forms of assessment to serve an intended purpose, as well as an awareness of critical assessment-related issues, such as validity, fairness, ethics, and the effects of assessment on students and other stakeholders. This article relates assessment literacy to the concept of psychometric validity, which can help English language teachers evaluate their own and others’ assessment practices through explicit and practical guides. Validity is a complex concept that requires clear explanations and examples tailored for teachers. Through this article, readers can enhance their understanding of core assessment concepts and learn how to implement positive assessment practices.