What is the primary purpose of criteria-referenced assessments?

The primary purpose of criterion-referenced assessments is to measure a student's knowledge or skills in relation to specific standards or learning objectives. These assessments are designed to determine whether students have learned the material that has been taught, rather than how they perform in comparison to their peers. By focusing on predefined criteria, educators can assess whether students have acquired the necessary knowledge and abilities outlined in the curriculum.

This approach allows for a more objective evaluation of student learning, as it directly correlates with the content that has been taught. It provides insights into individual student performance relative to the expected learning outcomes, informing instruction and intervention strategies when necessary. This focus on direct measurement of knowledge is what distinguishes criterion-referenced assessments from other types that might emphasize comparative performance or broader school metrics.