GRE Psychology Test
This Summer I will be studying for the GRE test. To be honest, I do not know much about it other than it being a requirement for graduate studies in psychology in certain universities. I thought it would be fitting, and helpful as well, to do my last blog post about it.
About the Test
Although not a psychological test per se, the GRE (Graduate Record Examination) psychology subject test is a comprehensive test demonstrating an undergraduate level knowledge of psychology. The GRE is used by many universities for admission decisions in certain graduate studies programs. For studies in the area of psychology, the test is divided into 3 major components: experimental or natural science oriented (~40%), social or social science oriented (~43%), and general (~17%). The test score ranges anywhere between 200 and 880, and the average total score usually falls around 577 for Psychology.
Test Item Development
For the development of the GRE Psychology Test questions, a community of 6 faculty members from different U.S. universities is formed. Each member creates 15–20 questions and then they discuss which questions to use and how to improve them over a three day period. Once the questions are assembled, the test is given for screening to a Sensitivity Committee to make sure the questions take into consideration and respect minority groups.
Test Validity
According to the official GRE website, there is documented evidence for the overall validity of the test. The test is valid in the following ways:
- Construct validity — the test measures what it is intended to measure, basically the level of psychology subject knowledge.
- Content validity — the extent to which the test covers and measures most elements of the construct.
- Predictive validity — the test accurately predicts success rate.
- Consequential validity — the test demonstrates minimal adverse consequences.
- External validity — the extent to which the results of the test can be comparable to others and generalized.
Personal Thoughts
There is a lot of debate when it comes to the GRE admission requirement. For example, some people view it as unnecessary and believe it still exists simply because of tradition. However, I personally believe the GRE can be a beneficial addition to your application if you have a mediocre GPA and limited-to-none research experience. There should be more than one way to show your ability and skills, and the more methods used, the better.
Another reason includes the fact that different universities have different grading schema — some are tougher than others (I’m looking at you, McGill). This can imply that comparing GPAs from different schools may not be an accurate portrayal of actual knowledge of the material. The GRE exists to remediate this issue. All students will receive the same test, and all the final scores will be comparable to one another in a fair manner.
Worst case scenario, if your GRE score is below the necessary requirement to secure yourself a spot in the competitive zone, you may choose to retake it, that is if you have any willpower remaining.
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