In a criterion-referenced test, students' performances are compared to what?

In a criterion-referenced test, students' performances are evaluated against a specific criterion or established standard rather than compared to the performance of other students. This method focuses on determining whether each student has achieved a particular level of proficiency or has met predetermined learning objectives.

The purpose of criterion-referenced testing is to assess whether an individual student's knowledge or skills meet the expected benchmarks outlined by educational standards, such as a passing score on a standardized assessment. This allows educators to identify whether students have mastered specific content, regardless of how their peers performed.

This approach contrasts with norm-referenced tests, where the emphasis is placed on comparing the test-taker’s performance to that of a larger group, often resulting in a rank order among students. Thus, relying on an established criterion enables a clearer understanding of individual abilities and learning outcomes in relation to specific educational goals.