Dr. Yopp said that ETS looks at the whole test creation process to ensure fairness, equity and that the tests meet the needs of multiple cultures. Each stage of the question-writing process is subject to review. They look at the performance of subgroups on each item. If an item functions poorly in certain cultures, ETS eliminates it from the test. Senator West expressed interest in meeting with Dr. Yopp at another time in the future to further explore test development.
Admissions tests measure the outcome of previous educational experience.
There are several factors that influence success that are not measured by standardized tests. Senator West asked why the tests should not be constructed to measure those non-cognitive skills which can be used to predict the same potential for success as cognitive skills. Yopp responded that the tests are devised to test for cognitive skills, and that certain amounts of information from cognitive skills tests are needed, such as in math for engineering. Chairman Adams introduced Dr. David England, President of North Lake Community College Performance Measures Committee, who gave an overview of how community colleges manage performance measures and accountability. Dr. England testified that the Texas Association of Community Colleges recommends a more extensive system.