What differentiates norm-referenced scores from criterion-referenced scores?

• A. Norm-referenced scores measure overall academic performance, while criterion-referenced scores evaluate based on set standards.
• B. Norm-referenced scores consider individual performance within a population, while criterion-referenced scores compare to a defined standard.
• C. Norm-referenced scores are utilized in psychological tests, whereas criterion-referenced scores are for physical tests.
• D. Norm-referenced scores are collected more frequently than criterion-referenced scores.

Answer: (B)

The differentiation between norm-referenced scores and criterion-referenced scores is fundamentally rooted in their purpose and methodology of evaluation. Norm-referenced scores are designed to place an individual’s performance in the context of a larger population. This means that an individual's score is interpreted based on how they compare to others, often reflecting a distribution of scores across a norm group.

In contrast, criterion-referenced scores measure a person’s performance against a specific set of standards or criteria. This means that the primary focus is not on how one performs relative to others, but on whether the individual has met predefined learning objectives or standards, regardless of how others performed.

By stating that norm-referenced scores consider individual performance within a population while criterion-referenced scores compare to a defined standard, the correct option accurately captures this distinction in evaluation purpose. This understanding is crucial for interpreting assessment results appropriately, whether in educational settings or other types of evaluations.