Evolve Reach


The methods used to determine the reliability and validity of exams available through Evolve Reach - Powered by HESI are of paramount interest to nursing faculties. It is not enough to simply state that an exam is reliable and valid. Nursing faculty must be accountable for determining how these constructs are measured so that evidence-based decisions can be made about the usefulness of incorporating these exams into their nursing curricula.

Sufficient scientific data exist to reassure nurse educators that Evolve Reach - Powered by HESI Specialty and Exit Exams can be used confidently to assess students' progress throughout the nursing curriculum and their preparedness for the licensure exam. Elsevier and HESI use item analysis data from all previous administrations of test items included on an exam to calculate an estimated reliability coefficient. This methodology ensures that the reliability estimates for Evolve Reach exams are updated on a continuous basis.

The methods used for determining the validity of Evolve Reach - Powered by HESI Specialty and Exit Exams are rooted in classical test theory. Based on this foundation, the validity of these exams is well established. However, measurement of exam validity is an ongoing process.


For a detailed explanation about the reliability and validity of Evolve Reach - Powered by HESI exams, and a closer look at the research methodologies used to measure these constructs, see: