Which type of test compares an individual’s performance to that of the norm group?

A norm-referenced test is designed specifically to compare an individual’s performance against a defined group, or "norm group." This norm group typically consists of a representative sample of individuals from the population that the test is intended to measure. The results are used to determine how a student performed relative to the average performance of their peers. This type of assessment allows educators to see where a student falls on a continuum of abilities, thereby identifying whether they are above, at, or below the average level of performance.

In contrast, criterion-referenced tests measure a student's performance against a predetermined set of criteria or standards, focusing on whether specific skills or knowledge have been mastered, rather than how the student compares to others. Diagnostic tests are intended to identify a learner's strengths and weaknesses in particular skill areas, while formative tests are used to provide ongoing feedback during the learning process to improve instruction and learning. Each of these alternative test types serves different purposes in educational settings, highlighting the importance of understanding the intended use of various assessments.