Which term is defined as the extent to which a test score predicts future job performance?

Which term is defined as the extent to which a test score predicts future job performance?

• A. predictive validity
• B. reliability
• C. validity
• D. content validity

Answer: (A)

The main concept here is how well a test score forecasts future job performance. This specific idea is predictive validity. It measures the degree to which test results align with how someone will perform on the job after they’re hired. To determine predictive validity, you correlate test scores with actual performance data gathered after a set period, such as supervisor ratings, productivity metrics, or performance evaluations. A strong positive correlation means the test is good at predicting who will perform well. Reliability is about consistency of the test results across time, forms, or raters, not about predicting job outcomes. Validity is the broader umbrella that includes several ways a test can measure what it’s intended to measure, with predictive validity being the version that focuses on future performance. Content validity concerns whether the test content covers the job tasks and knowledge areas, rather than its actual predictive power.

The main concept here is how well a test score forecasts future job performance. This specific idea is predictive validity. It measures the degree to which test results align with how someone will perform on the job after they’re hired. To determine predictive validity, you correlate test scores with actual performance data gathered after a set period, such as supervisor ratings, productivity metrics, or performance evaluations. A strong positive correlation means the test is good at predicting who will perform well.

Reliability is about consistency of the test results across time, forms, or raters, not about predicting job outcomes. Validity is the broader umbrella that includes several ways a test can measure what it’s intended to measure, with predictive validity being the version that focuses on future performance. Content validity concerns whether the test content covers the job tasks and knowledge areas, rather than its actual predictive power.