While standardized administration procedures are essential for supporting test validity, they can inadvertently heighten test anxiety—introducing construct-irrelevant variance that undermines assessment fairness. Striking the right balance between standardized rigor and test-taker experience is critical. As outlined in Standard 5.3, testing environments should “furnish reasonable comfort with minimal distractions,” ensuring both validity and examinee well-being.

This session showcases how two organizations—one university and one certification body—have reimagined their test administration strategies to reduce stress and foster a more inclusive, accessible, and even delightful experience for test-takers. Presenters will share practical approaches to preparing candidates, thoughtful use of language, and test-day features designed to create a calm and supportive environment—all while upholding the integrity of the assessment process.

Learning Objectives:

• At the end of the session, participants will be able to identify key sources of test anxiety that can arise from standardized administration procedures.

• At the end of the session, participants will determine of new strategies shared will be used to help create a more inclusive, low-stress testing experience.

• At the end of the session, participants will understand alternate features that help other programs be successful without losing integrity.

Presenters:

• Pat Hughes, VP of IT Assessments, ITS

• Laura Williams, Sr. Lead Assessment Integrity Strategist, Western Governors University