FAA Fundamentals of Instructing (FOI)The Teaching Process and MethodsHard
An FAA private pilot knowledge test is designed so that an applicant passes by achieving a minimum score of 70%, based on demonstrating mastery of established aeronautical knowledge areas, rather than being ranked against how other applicants performed. This type of test is best classified as—
- AA criterion-referenced test
- BA summative assessment only
- CA formative assessment only
- DA norm-referenced test
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: A. A criterion-referenced test
Criterion-referenced tests measure an individual's performance against a fixed standard or set of objectives, such as achieving 70% mastery, rather than comparing performance to other test-takers, which is characteristic of norm-referenced testing.
Why the other options are wrong
- B. While it may also be summative, the defining feature described is the fixed standard, making criterion-referenced the more precise classification.
- C. Formative assessment occurs during instruction to guide learning, not to certify final mastery.
- D. Norm-referenced tests rank individuals relative to a group, which is not described here.
Criterion-Referenced vs Norm-Referenced Testing
Criterion-referenced tests measure performance against a fixed standard, while norm-referenced tests rank performance relative to other test-takers.
- FAA knowledge tests are criterion-referenced
- Norm-referenced tests use percentile rankings
- Criterion-referenced focuses on mastery of set objectives
Memory trick: 'Criterion = a fixed ruler, Norm = a race against peers.'