Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

Which of the following describes a test that measures an inherent ability or potential?

1. Aptitude test

2. Achievement test

3. Sensitivity test

4. Diagnostic test

The correct answer is: Aptitude test

An aptitude test is designed to assess a person's inherent abilities or potential in specific areas. These tests often evaluate various skills like logical reasoning, problem-solving, or specific talents, and they help to predict how well an individual might perform in a particular field or activity based on their natural capabilities. The key distinction here is that aptitude tests focus on future potential and the ability to learn or develop skills, rather than measuring what a person has already learned, which is the focus of achievement tests. Achievement tests assess knowledge or skills that a person has already acquired through study and experience. Sensitivity tests are usually used in the context of assessing emotional and empathic responses, rather than inherent abilities. Diagnostic tests are utilized to identify specific problems or deficiencies in knowledge or skills rather than to measure innate capability. Thus, aptitude tests are specifically suited for evaluating potential, making them the correct answer in this context.