What is measured by concurrent empirical validity?

Concurrent empirical validity measures how a test relates to another variable that is assessed at the same time. This form of validity indicates the extent to which the results of a test correlate with results from a different but related measure taken concurrently. When evaluating a test's concurrent validity, researchers look for strong correlations between the test scores and another established measure known to assess a similar construct or trait.

For example, if a new language proficiency test is developed, its concurrent validity would be determined by comparing the scores of that test with scores from an existing, well-established language proficiency test taken simultaneously by the same group of individuals. A high correlation would indicate that the new test effectively measures what it claims to measure in alignment with the established test.

Understanding concurrent empirical validity is essential for ensuring that new assessments are accurately reflecting the constructs they are intended to measure, thereby providing useful and meaningful results for further application.