ABSTRACT
In the introductory chapter to this volume, Hambleton reviews a wide range of general issues pertaining to the cross-cultural adaptation of measures of achievement, aptitude and personality. Important sources of error encountered in adapting tests are described, and guidelines for reducing error and enhancing test validity are offered (Hambleton, 1994; Hambleton & Patsula, 1999; van de Vijver & Hambleton, 1996). Three broad categories of issues and problems encountered in test adaptation are considered in detail in these publications: (a) cultural and language differences, (b) technical and methodological problems, and (c) factors that influence the interpretation of test results. Practical guidelines recently developed by the International Test Commission (ITC) for translating and adapting educational and psychological tests are also reported and discussed.
