Question

What type of data is required for criterion-referenced testing? Why would we use criterion-referenced testing as opposed to norm-referenced testing in some scenarios? Explain your answer. Give two examples of criterion-referenced tests in health and human performance. (6 pts)

Answer 1

A criterion-referenced test is designed to measure a student's academic performance against some standard or criteria. This standard or criteria is predetermined before students begin the test. Schools or districts choose a standard, such as a percent of items answered correctly or a state test benchmark, as the criteria for the test. The student's score then shows the progress they have made toward the agreed-upon standard--if they fall short, they must continue to work toward the standard. An example: When you take your temperature, the accepted healthy standard is 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. If your temperature is higher, you are not meeting the standard for health and are likely ill
In addition to criterion-referenced tests, teachers can also use norm-referenced tests in order to learn different things about their students’ progress.

Differences :

Norm-referenced tests usually cover a broad range of content, but often mismatch what is taught to what is tested. Criterion-referenced assessments measure how well a student has mastered a specific learning goal (or objective).

Norm-referenced measures compare a person’s knowledge or skills to the knowledge or skills of the norm group. The composition of the norm group depends on the assessment.

Being able to focus our instruction based on the students' needs is another benefit of criterion-referenced assessment. The students need to make progress toward their annual goals and objectives and the use of this type of assessment allows for that because again their scores are compared only to how they perform.

Well-known examples of criterion-referenced tests include Advanced Placement exams and the National Assessment of Educational Progress, which are both standardized tests administered to students throughout the United States

Criterion-referenced standards for health-related fıt- ness require criterion and fıeld test items that relate to health status and function. They also require scores that are responsive to health status and physical activity.