ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses arguments regarding absence of bias by examining claims and sub-claims with the relevant warrants and backing from relevant empirical studies. The methodology for conducting research on bias, accommodation, and internal structure has typically relied on post hoc studies—that is, studies conducted after an assessment is administered and test performance data are available for analysis. In terms of content and topics, assessments could cause bias to different test-taking groups if there is a dominant content or topic area in the assessment materials for listening and reading. J. Abedi and Gandara discussed another aspect of bias that has to do with English language learners (ELL) in mainstream US classrooms. R. Hambleton and J. Rodgers identified five areas in their review: fairness, content bias, language bias, item structure and format bias, and stereotyping. In a series of studies, Abedi made the case for appropriate accommodations for ELL test takers.
