Measurement refers to the process by which the attributes or dimensions of some physical object are
determined. One exception seems to be in the use of the word measure in determining the IQ of a
person. The phrase, "this test measures IQ" is commonly used. Measuring such things as attitudes or
preferences also applies. However, when we measure, we generally use some standard instrument to
determine how big, tall, heavy, voluminous, hot, cold, fast, or straight something actually is. Standard
instruments refer to instruments such as rulers, scales, thermometers, pressure gauges, etc. We
measure to obtain information about what is. Such information may or may not be useful, depending
on the accuracy of the instruments we use, and our skill at using them. There are few such
instruments in the social sciences that approach the validity and reliability of say a 12" ruler. We
measure how big a classroom is in terms of square feet, we measure the temperature of the room by
using a thermometer, and we use Ohm meters to determine the voltage, amperage, and resistance in
a circuit. In all of these examples, we are not assessing anything; we are simply collecting information
relative to some established rule or standard. Assessment is therefore quite different from
measurement, and has uses that suggest very different purposes. When used in a learning objective,
the definition provided on the ADPRIMA for the behavioral verb measure is: To apply a standard scale
or measuring device to an object, series of objects, events, or conditions, according to practices
accepted by those who are skilled in the use of the device or scale.