FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

How are students assessed in norm-referenced tests?

1. Based on their personal improvements

2. Based on a criterion standard

3. Compared to a normative sample

4. In absolute terms of knowledge

The correct answer is: Compared to a normative sample

Students are assessed in norm-referenced tests by comparing their scores to those of a normative sample, which consists of a group of test-takers who have already completed the test. This allows educators to understand how an individual student's performance ranks relative to their peers. The normative sample is typically representative of a specific population, allowing the test results to indicate where a student stands in comparison to others who took the same test. This comparison helps to identify students who are performing above or below the average level within the normative group. Such assessments provide insights into each student's relative standing concerning others, rather than measuring performance against a fixed set of criteria or mastery of specific content, which is characteristic of criterion-referenced tests. The focus on relative performance makes norm-referenced tests useful for making decisions about grouping students, identifying areas of need in relation to peers, and evaluating the effectiveness of instructional programs. This form of assessment is especially valuable in contexts where understanding the distribution of performance across a population is necessary.