Concurrent Validity

Concurrent validity is designed to evaluate the accuracy with which a test measures the desired outcome. Along with predictive validity, concurrent validity is one of the subtypes of criterion validity. Concurrent validity occurs when a new test correlates with another already valid test that has been previously established. The previously validated test is often called the “gold standard.” When there is a high correlation between both tests, concurrent validity is indicated. 

It is important to establish concurrent validity when new tests or measures are created. This is especially essential when a new test claims to be better than its predecessors. For example, the developers of a new test may claim that the test is faster, more objective, or cheaper. 

Concurrent validity can only be used when there is already another validated instrument or criterion. This term can also refer to two groups of people concurrently testing at the same time. Alternatively, the term can also refer to two different groups taking the same test. 

Example of Concurrent Validity

Imagine a scenario where a company decides to hire a financial analyst. Cognitive ability is often a strong predictor of job performance when the position requires high levels of analytic thinking or problem-solving. For this reason, the company wants to introduce a new cognitive ability test during the hiring process. To establish concurrent validity, the company might follow these steps:

1. Select an established measure: The company uses a well-established cognitive ability test to compare with its new test. 
2. Administer both tests: Using a test group, the company has the testers complete the well-established cognitive ability test and the new test. 
3. Compare results: Once the tests are completed, the company examines the scores from both tests to determine how closely the scores correlate. 
4. Establish concurrent validity: If the new test scores have a high positive correlation with the scores from the well-established test, this demonstrates concurrent validity. The new test seems to be as effective as the old test.