Development and Validation of an Aptitude Test in Science for Secondary Students

The study aims to develop and validate a science aptitude test for ninth-grade students. A multiple-choice test with 30 items was finalized after the pilot study. The test was administered to 130 secondary-level students, including 60 boys and 70 girls, who were randomly selected. Proper methodology and statistical techniques were used to validate the test. ‘Item analysis’ was done for the selection of suitable items in the desired test. ‘Reliability’ was calculated through the ‘Kuder-Richardson Formula 20 (KR-20)’ and the split-half method, yielding coefficients of 0.88 and 0.86, respectively. Content validity was assessed by expert rating and analysed using the content validity index. Intrinsic validity was also measured by using Pearson correlation techniques. Mean, Standard deviation, and Stanine norms are also set up. The study adopts an analytical approach to assess students' aptitude levels with high accuracy. A reliability coefficient of 0.88, achieved through a robust methodology, underscores the study's credibility. Furthermore, this study will help teachers, curriculum planners, and students develop a stronger aptitude for science at the secondary stage.