How are passing scores set and validated? Why do scores differ across states?
Before passing scores are set, each state that uses a Praxis™ test undertakes a validation process and sets standards. Panels of teachers and teacher educators, appointed by each state, review the tests to confirm that they are aligned with state licensing requirements. The panel members also make judgments regarding the difficulty of the questions for beginning teachers. Each state uses those judgments in setting its respective passing scores. Because each state may have slightly different licensing standards and requirements, the scores will vary from one state to another.
Before passing scores are set, each state that uses a Praxis test undertakes a validation process and sets standards. Panels of teachers and teacher educators, appointed by each state, review the tests to confirm that they are aligned with state licensing requirements. The panel members also make judgments regarding the difficulty of the questions for beginning teachers. Each state uses those judgments in setting its respective passing scores. Because each state may have slightly different licensing standards and requirements, the scores will vary from one state to another.
