The CareerTech Testing Matrix (The Competency Test Process)

We often get questions about test scores and what they mean so we developed the CareerTech Testing Matrix as a guide to assist you when trying to interpret test scores.

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”The Test Score.”

We often focus on just one thing after any test administration and that is the “test score.” A test score is simply a point-in-time reference and this "reference" is comprised of and influenced by a multitude of factors. The Matrix demonstrates many of the factors that influence a test score before a student even enrolls in a training program and we must consider all of these factors when interpreting a test to any student, parent, or faculty member.

"Test Importance"

Are tests important?  Absolutely! This is another area that we, the assessment industry, need to stress to our examinees and stakeholders. Students will take many tests during their academic careers and for a variety of reasons, but they are all important. For example, the online competency tests that are administered by the CareerTech Testing Center are tied to skills standards and the purpose is to determine if a student has acquired the necessary skills, in their chosen field of study, to have success in the workplace, in education, and in life.

We hope you will take the time to look at the CareerTech Testing Matrix and use this information when analyzing test scores. We can't reiterate enough that a test score is ALWAYS more than just a number and that caution should always be used when interpreting test scores.