What is the primary purpose of criterion-referenced assessments?

The primary purpose of criterion-referenced assessments is to evaluate student performance against predefined standards. This type of assessment focuses on whether students can demonstrate understanding and skills based on specific learning objectives or criteria, rather than comparing their performance to that of their peers. By using predetermined benchmarks, educators can identify individual or group strengths and weaknesses regarding the established learning goals. This allows for targeted instructional strategies, tailored feedback, and ensures that all students have the opportunity to meet key learning outcomes regardless of how their peers perform.

In contrast, assessments that compare students against each other emphasize relative performance rather than mastery of the subject matter, which is not consistent with the goal of criterion-referenced assessments. Evaluating student motivation or measuring teacher effectiveness also diverge from the core aim, as these areas focus on different aspects of the educational process rather than the direct assessment of student knowledge and skills relative to specific standards.