The Process of Finding, Adapting, and Validating a Measurement Instrument: Decisions Made in the Researcher’s Kitchen

Abstract

Research writings often present the completed research process—its results, methods, and objectives—in a way that conveys clarity and linearity, with no contradictions or obstacles. These characteristics make the researcher’s work appear as an activity that reflects little of the real effort and the backstage dimension hidden behind the work carried out at our desks, in laboratories, and in fields of study.

Research entails a measure of ingenuity and a touch of practical knowledge that come into play before and during the implementation of the process. In this paper, we address the difficulties encountered and the decisions made in the adaptation and translation of an instrument that assesses intelligence from the Triarchic perspective proposed by Sternberg (1985), more specifically the STAT—Sternberg Triarchic Abilities Test—which provides a quantitative measure of the analytical, practical, and creative abilities of the intellect.

The aim is to show what takes place behind the scenes of research. To this end, first, we refer to the process of searching for the data-collection instrument, with the purpose of discussing the strategies implemented and describing the resources devised. Second, we describe the criteria considered for the translation and adaptation of the STAT, referring to the contextual, linguistic, and cultural variables taken into account in the process.

We also address the format characteristics established for the presentation of the test, the test protocol, and the answer sheet, as well as the precautions considered for administering the test in accordance with the standard of informed consent. Finally, we specify some aspects of test scoring in relation to the criteria set out in its manual.