Understanding Norm-Referenced Assessment: A Legal Perspective
Definition & Meaning
Norm-referenced assessment is a method of evaluating students by comparing their performance to that of a larger group, known as the norm group. This approach ranks students based on their scores or grades relative to their peers, often using standardized tests. The primary aim of norm-referenced assessments is to sort students, determining who performs better or worse compared to others. For example, entrance exams often utilize this method to assess candidates' abilities against a national sample of test-takers.
Legal Use & context
In legal contexts, norm-referenced assessments can be relevant in educational law, particularly regarding standardized testing and admissions processes. They may be used to evaluate student performance in cases involving educational equity, discrimination, or special education. Legal professionals may encounter this term when dealing with cases related to student rights or educational policy, and users can manage related forms through resources like US Legal Forms.
Real-world examples
Here are a couple of examples of abatement:
- A university uses a norm-referenced assessment to determine which applicants are admitted based on their entrance exam scores compared to other candidates.
- A school district implements standardized testing to evaluate student performance against state-wide norms, identifying students who may need additional support. (hypothetical example)