What is normal? Accurate norms and their use for psychological tests

Psychological tests, like intelligence tests, are widely used in research and individual assessment, like for screening in clinical practice. Test scores are interpreted on the basis of normed scores, which express how normal (i.e., common) an individual’s performance is, compared to their reference population. Currently, norms are less accurate than possible, norm construction requires more effort than necessary, and norms are often not effectively communicated to test users. All this hampers proper and effective norm use. This is problematic, because it may slow scientific progress, and may lead to wrong individual decisions in assessments, with possibly serious negative consequences.
We will develop advanced norming methods that make the process of (1) scoring tests, (2) designing normative studies, and (3) interpreting test results more precise and simpler than with the currently available methods. We do so by developing (1) two item response theory-based norming methods and a multivariate norming method, (2) methods for optimal design and sequential sampling, and (3) a communication strategy for test norms to test users.
Upon completion, the project will have resulted in a complete methodology for optimal norming: from designing a normative study to actually calculating the norms to the communication towards end users. This makes it possible to construct norms with the accuracy desired with the least effort possible. This facilitates the development, maintenance and use of high-quality, effective psychological tests. All this boosts a proper and effective test interpretation, which greatly aids test practice, for the benefit of both science and the individuals tested.

Psychological tests, as intelligence tests, are widely used, like for diagnosis and selection. Test administrations are interpreted using test norms. Currently, norms are less accurate than possible, creating norms requires more effort than necessary, and the interpretation of norms by end users is often hampered by insufficiently available information. We develop advanced norming methods that make (1) scoring tests, (2) designing a normative study, and (3) interpreting test results more precise and simpler than is possible now. This makes the development, maintenance and use of high-quality psychological tests easier and cheaper, which greatly benefits test practice.