Examiner error in intelligence testing: Are you a source?

Abstract

Four protocols and scripts were constructed for the WAIS (Wechsler, 1955) presenting a range of levels of intelligence and an assortment of behavioral patterns. A group of three practicing school psychologists edited the scripts and assessed the accuracy of point assignments to individual items. Unanimity was reached for scoring of each response. These “standard” responses appearing in the WAIS manual were memorized by clients who served as examinees. Thirty-three WAIS administrations were completed by practicing school psychologists and school psychology students eligible for state certification as psychometrists. These obtained score means were not significantly different from the “true scores” assigned to the standard responses for Verbal, Performance, or Full Scale indices. However, a number of examiner item scoring and administration errors were observed for numerous subtests, that could well result in misplacement or exclusion of an individual from a special program. Such examiner error suggests the need for a reexamination of training procedures and continuing education for school psychologists to facilitate proficiency with new and revised psychometric instruments (WAIS-R).