What is the definition of construct bias?

The definition of construct bias refers to a situation where different groups interpret or respond to the same item in different ways, leading to results that do not accurately represent their true abilities or knowledge. This type of bias arises because the constructs being measured may not be equally relevant or understood across diverse groups. For instance, cultural differences, language variations, and differing life experiences can influence how individuals perceive and approach test items, ultimately impacting the comparability of scores among those groups.

This understanding highlights the importance of ensuring that assessments are fair and valid for all test-takers, as construct bias can undermine the reliability and validity of the results. It emphasizes the need for careful test design, considering the diverse backgrounds of the test population to avoid skewed outcomes that could misrepresent competencies or knowledge. The other options do not fully capture the essence of construct bias, focusing instead on other issues related to sampling, test design flaws, or limitations that do not encompass the varied perceptions among groups.