Emerging Standards for Test Applications in the French-Speaking Countries of Europe

Abstract

Summary: In June 1968, during the General Meeting of the Swiss Psychological Society, Jean Cardinet stimulated a debate about the application of ethical standards in testing. This debate was the start of the International Test Commission. At that time, Switzerland and France were at the forefront of the battle for the development of standards for test design, marketing, and use. Today, 30 years later, what is the situation on this topic in the French-speaking European countries (Switzerland, France, and Belgium)? The aim of this paper is to describe the current situation in the regulation of testing practices in these three countries. Unfortunately, since Jean Cardinet 's initiative, the situation has deteriorated. This stagnation is related to a lack of interest about tests among psychologists during the 1970s and the 1980s. During this period, a very small number of tests were developed and the use of tests was on the decline. For the last 10 years, a renewed interest in tests has been related to the development of cognitive psychology. It has stimulated a new reflection about quality control on tests and on competencies required for a correct use of tests. But there is still a long way to go to reach an effective regulation of testing practice in the French-speaking countries of Europe.