De-Mystifying Employment Test Validation: A Process to Get High Validity Coefficients

This article presents a model of test validation which yielded high validity and reliability coefficients. The study was conducted for a mid-level secretary position in a state universities civil service system. An employment selection test was developed around 25 tasks of work identified in the job analysis. A research performance appraisal was developed with behavioral statements which matched each of the test sections. The validity coefficients of the composite test scores of Form A and Form B and the composite performance appraisal rating of each incumbent were .55 and .49, respectively. The reliability coefficient for Form A and Form B is .94. These high validity and reliability coefficients compare favorable with the literature reviews of criterion validity studies with clerical positions.