What does "test bias" refer to in assessment practices?

Test bias refers to the unfair advantages or disadvantages that various groups of test-takers may experience based on cultural differences, language abilities, socioeconomic status, or other factors. This concept is crucial in educational assessment because it highlights how assessments can unintentionally favor one group over another, leading to inequitable outcomes. When an assessment does not take into account the diverse backgrounds and experiences of all test-takers, it can result in skewed results that do not accurately reflect an individual's knowledge or skills.

Addressing test bias is essential for ensuring that assessments are valid and reliable, providing a fair measure of student performance across all demographics. By focusing on eliminating bias, educators can create more inclusive assessment practices that truly gauge what students know without the influence of extraneous factors that may affect performance differently based on cultural or social backgrounds.