The Consequential Validity of ABFM Examinations
The Consequential Validity of ABFM Examinations
Empirical data analyses with rigorous research methodologies are critical for providing evidence that an examination is functioning well and measuring the intended construct. The ABFM has produced a considerable body of research that evidences the accuracy and trustworthiness of the score results produced by its examinations. Similarly, the ABFM has continually emphasized that the purpose of the examination is to measure a physician's fund of medical knowledge in clinical family medicine and has emphasized appropriate and responsible score interpretations. Unfortunately, some consumers continue to attach additional meaning to these score results that can affect a physician in unintended ways. To preserve the integrity of the score inferences and their impact on physicians, it is important that all consumers of ABFM examination score results make appropriate and responsible inferences about what exactly the scores mean.
Conclusion
Empirical data analyses with rigorous research methodologies are critical for providing evidence that an examination is functioning well and measuring the intended construct. The ABFM has produced a considerable body of research that evidences the accuracy and trustworthiness of the score results produced by its examinations. Similarly, the ABFM has continually emphasized that the purpose of the examination is to measure a physician's fund of medical knowledge in clinical family medicine and has emphasized appropriate and responsible score interpretations. Unfortunately, some consumers continue to attach additional meaning to these score results that can affect a physician in unintended ways. To preserve the integrity of the score inferences and their impact on physicians, it is important that all consumers of ABFM examination score results make appropriate and responsible inferences about what exactly the scores mean.