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What is the difference between a criterion referenced test and a norm referenced test (be sure to use references) and provided one example of each?
Sample Answer
Difference between Criterion-Referenced Test and Norm-Referenced Test
Criterion-referenced tests and norm-referenced tests are two different approaches to assessment that serve distinct purposes in evaluating individual performance or group comparisons. Here is a breakdown of the differences between these two types of tests:
Criterion-Referenced Test (CRT): A criterion-referenced test is designed to measure an individual’s performance against predetermined criteria or standards. The focus is on determining whether a test taker has achieved specific learning objectives or skills. The primary purpose of CRTs is to assess mastery of content or skills rather than comparing individuals to each other.
One example of a criterion-referenced test is the driver’s license exam. The test is designed to assess whether an individual has attained the necessary knowledge and skills to operate a vehicle safely and responsibly. The passing score is determined by predetermined criteria that define the minimum level of proficiency required to obtain a driver’s license. The focus here is on meeting the established criteria rather than ranking individuals against each other.
Norm-Referenced Test (NRT): A norm-referenced test compares an individual’s performance to that of a norm group, which represents a larger population of individuals who have previously taken the same test. The purpose is to determine how an individual’s performance compares to others in the norm group. NRTs rank individuals based on their performance relative to others, rather than against predefined criteria.
One example of a norm-referenced test is the SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test). The SAT is widely used for college admissions and compares an individual’s scores in critical reading, math, and writing against the performance of a norm group of test takers. The results provide a percentile rank indicating where the individual stands in comparison to others who have taken the exam. The SAT does not focus on mastery of specific content but rather on how an individual’s performance compares to that of their peers.
In summary, the key difference between criterion-referenced tests and norm-referenced tests lies in their purposes and how they evaluate performance. Criterion-referenced tests assess mastery of specific criteria or standards, while norm-referenced tests rank individuals in relation to a norm group to determine their relative performance.
