What is the primary purpose of a criterion-referenced test?

The primary purpose of a criterion-referenced test is to measure an individual's performance against specific criteria or standards, rather than comparing their performance to a norm group. This type of assessment is designed to determine whether a test-taker has achieved a predetermined level of competency or skill in a particular area. Criterion-referenced tests focus on the individual's knowledge and abilities in relation to established benchmarks, which allows educators and professionals to assess whether specific learning goals have been met.

This approach is particularly useful in educational settings, where the goal is to confirm mastery of material or skills, rather than simply ranking students against their peers. By establishing clear criteria for success, criterion-referenced tests provide valuable feedback on individual progress and highlight areas for improvement, facilitating targeted educational strategies and interventions. In contrast, other types of assessments may focus on relative performance, which does not necessarily reflect an individual’s actual skill level against the desired standards.