What does social validation in assessment refer to?

Social validation in assessment refers to the acceptance and recognition of assessment tools by the community. This concept emphasizes the importance of ensuring that assessment methods and results are respected and valued by those affected by the assessments, such as students, educators, and practitioners within the field. When an assessment tool has social validation, it implies that the community believes the tool is relevant, appropriate, and effective for its intended purpose. This validation can enhance the credibility of the assessment process and its outcomes, making it more likely that stakeholders will utilize the results for decision-making or improvement purposes.

In educational and kinesiology contexts, social validation underscores the need for assessments not only to be statistically sound but also to resonate with the people involved, ensuring that the evaluations lead to meaningful changes and outcomes.