Norm-referenced testing (NRT) and criterion-referenced testing (CRT) are two common types of educational assessment. NRT compares a student’s performance to the performance of a norm group, while CRT compares a student’s performance to a set of predetermined criteria.
Norm-referenced Testing (NRT)
NRT is a type of assessment that compares a student’s performance to the performance of a norm group. The norm group is a group of students who are similar to the student being assessed in terms of age, grade level, or other relevant characteristics. The student’s score on the NRT is then compared to the scores of the norm group to determine how well the student performed relative to his or her peers.
Criterion-referenced Testing (CRT)
CRT is a type of assessment that compares a student’s performance to a set of predetermined criteria. These criteria are typically based on the objectives of the instructional program. The student’s score on the CRT is then compared to the criteria to determine whether or not the student has mastered the objectives.
Key Differences between NRT and CRT
The following table summarizes the key differences between NRT and CRT:
| Feature | Norm-Referenced Testing (NRT) | Criterion-Referenced Testing (CRT) |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | To compare students to each other | To determine whether or not students have mastered specific skills or knowledge |
| Scoring | Based on the performance of a norm group | Based on a set of predetermined criteria |
| Interpretation | A student’s score is interpreted relative to the scores of other students in the norm group | A student’s score is interpreted relative to the predetermined criteria |
| Use | Used for making decisions about placement, promotion, and college admissions | Used for making decisions about instructional planning and remediation. |
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Key Differences
Now that we have a basic understanding of norm-referenced and criterion-referenced testing, let’s highlight the key differences between the two:
- Focus: Norm-referenced testing focuses on comparing students’ performance to that of a larger group, while criterion-referenced testing focuses on measuring mastery of specific content or skills.
- Interpretation: Norm-referenced test scores are interpreted in relation to the performance of other test-takers, whereas criterion-referenced test scores are interpreted based on the established criteria or standards.
- Ranking vs. Mastery: Norm-referenced testing ranks students on a scale, while criterion-referenced testing determines whether students have achieved specific learning objectives or competencies.
- Individual vs. Group: Criterion-referenced testing focuses on individual student performance, while norm-referenced testing focuses on how students compare to each other.
- Information Provided: Norm-referenced tests provide information about how a student compares to others, while criterion-referenced tests provide information about a student’s mastery of specific content or skills.
Examples of NRT and CRT
Here are some examples of NRT and CRT:
- NRT: SAT, ACT, GRE, GMAT, state achievement tests
- CRT: Unit tests, quizzes, exit exams, performance assessments
Advantages of NRT
- NRT can provide useful information about a student’s relative standing compared to other students.
- NRT can be used to identify students who are at risk of falling behind or who are excelling academically.
- NRT scores can be used to track a student’s progress over time.
Disadvantages of NRT
- NRT does not provide information about whether or not a student has mastered specific skills or knowledge.
- NRT scores can be influenced by factors other than a student’s ability, such as motivation, test-taking anxiety, and familiarity with the test format.
- NRT scores can be used to make unfair comparisons between students from different backgrounds or with different learning styles.
Advantages of CRT
- CRT provides information about whether or not a student has mastered specific skills or knowledge.
- CRT can be used to identify specific areas where a student needs additional instruction.
- CRT can be used to track a student’s progress toward mastery.
Disadvantages of CRT
- CRT may not be as reliable as NRT for making comparisons between students.
- CRT can be more time-consuming to develop and administer than NRT.
Conclusion
Both NRT and CRT have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. The type of assessment that is most appropriate for a particular situation will depend on the specific purpose of the assessment.
