Test adaptation is a process by which a test (or assessment instrument) is transformed from a source language and/or culture into a target language and/or culture. This dissertation includes a description of the development of GMAT® Verbal en Español, a Spanish-language adaptation of the verbal section of GMAT®, and looks closely at timing issues in the context of test adaptation.
A set of operational guidelines for producing adapted instruments, built on the foundation of recommendations from the International Test Commission and other researchers is presented. Issues of differential item functioning (DIF) and equating are addressed, including a synthesis of available literature. A discussion of other operational issues, such as the use of an international steering committee, including suggestions for forming and managing the committee, is presented. Concrete examples of adapted items are included as is an annotated set of operational guidelines. Timing issues are specifically addressed within the context of adapted instruments.