The construction of "user-friendly" tests of cognitive functioning: A synthesis of maximal- and typical-performance measurement philosophies

Maximal- and typical-performance tests are viewed as having complementary s trengths and weaknesses. We propose a methodology and describe a test batte ry that synthesizes the psychometric strengths of maximal-performance tests and the engagingness of typical-performance tests. We show that this batte ry measures the same abilities tapped by well-known conventional cognitive tests, but is viewed by examinees as less stressful, more interesting, and of greater real-world relevance than conventional tests. We therefore argue that psychometric tests of cognitive abilities are not, on the average, co mpromised in their measurement of strictly analytical skills by stressfulne ss, boringness, or artificiality, as has been proposed by critics of testin g. However, testing instruments that reduce these aversive factors may have important practical benefits, especially in applications where they may di scourage research participation. Prime examples of such applications includ e large door-to-door surveys and small focus groups that address topics rel ating to cognitive functioning.