What type of assessment is designed to compare a student's performance against a predefined standard?

A criterion-referenced test is specifically designed to evaluate a student's performance against a defined set of standards or learning objectives. This type of assessment measures whether students have acquired specific skills or knowledge that they are expected to master, regardless of how other students perform. The focus is on individual achievement in relation to clearly outlined criteria.

For example, if a particular standard in a math curriculum states that students should be able to solve a certain type of equation, a criterion-referenced test would directly assess this skill based on that standard. The results indicate whether the student has met, exceeded, or not met the expectations set forth, providing valuable insights into their specific strengths and areas for improvement relative to the learning goals. This approach emphasizes mastery of content rather than comparison to peers, making it a crucial tool in educational assessments aimed at improving student performance.