The Ethics of Testing

Abstract

This paper is concerned with ethical issues in the practice and administration of tests. Some broad principles related to the knowledge required for test usage are described, together with the skills necessary for competent test use. Ethical practice in relation to test users, training in testing, test administration, test interpretation and test instruments is also examined. The focus then changes to a consideration of the more general ethical principles that apply to professional practice and are equally applicable to testing. A final section examines the relevance of these issues for career guidance practitioners and also some recent professional developments that will encourage ethical practice in testing.