What does "adaptive testing" refer to in the context of the ASVAB?

Adaptive testing in the context of the ASVAB refers to a dynamic approach where the difficulty level of the questions adjusts based on the test taker's performance on previous questions. This means that if a test taker answers a question correctly, the subsequent question may be more challenging; conversely, if a question is answered incorrectly, the next question may be easier. This personalization allows the test to more accurately assess the individual's abilities, providing a more efficient and targeted evaluation of skills and knowledge.

In contrast, other options present static or simplified approaches to testing. Static difficulty would not cater to the test taker's performance, and a decreasing difficulty through the test might not accurately reflect the individual's proficiency. Presenting only easy questions would not provide a comprehensive evaluation of a test taker's skills, failing to challenge them appropriately. Adaptive testing, therefore, is designed to create a more accurate measure of a person’s capabilities while maintaining engagement and minimizing frustration.