Norm-referenced test

Norm-referenced test (NRT) is a type of test, assessment, or evaluation which yields an estimate of the position of the tested individual in a predefined population, with respect to the trait being measured. This type of test is designed to highlight achievement differences between and among students to produce a dependable rank order of students across a continuum. Norm-referenced tests are contrasted with criterion-referenced tests, which measure an individual's performance against a fixed set of criteria or standards.

Overview

Norm-referenced tests are used to compare the relative performance of individuals in a group. They are commonly used in education, psychology, and the employment sector. The scores from norm-referenced tests are typically reported as a percentile ranking or a standard score. The percentile ranking indicates the percentage of scores in its frequency distribution that are equal to or lower than it. A standard score (e.g., IQ) is derived from the raw score in relation to the norm group's mean and standard deviation.

Purpose and Usage

The primary purpose of norm-referenced testing is to ascertain an individual's performance level within a specific group. These tests are particularly useful for identifying both high and low achievers, making them valuable tools for decisions related to academic tracking, identification for special education services, and talent identification. In the employment sector, norm-referenced tests can aid in the selection process by comparing candidates' abilities or personality traits.

Construction and Characteristics

Creating a norm-referenced test involves several steps, including defining the domain to be measured, selecting items that represent this domain, and administering the test to a sample population to establish norms. Characteristics of a well-constructed norm-referenced test include:

• Reliability: The test consistently measures what it is supposed to measure.
• Validity: The test accurately measures the domain of interest.
• Standardization: The test is administered and scored in a consistent, or "standard," manner.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Advantages:

• Provides a clear method for comparing individuals.
• Useful for identifying individuals who fall significantly above or below the average within a group.

Disadvantages:

• Does not measure mastery of the subject matter.
• Can perpetuate inequality by ranking individuals without considering the context of their performance.

Comparison with Criterion-Referenced Tests

Unlike norm-referenced tests, criterion-referenced tests measure an individual's performance against a fixed set of criteria or learning standards, rather than comparing scores against the scores of a group. Criterion-referenced tests are designed to assess whether individuals have mastered specific skills or concepts, regardless of how other individuals perform.

Ethical Considerations

The use of norm-referenced tests raises several ethical considerations, including the potential for bias, the impact on low-achieving students, and the implications of using test results for high-stakes decisions. It is crucial for test developers and administrators to ensure that tests are fair, valid, and used appropriately.

See Also

• Educational assessment
• Psychometrics
• Standardized test
• Achievement test