Counselor Education Comprehensive Exam (CECE) Practice Exam

When a test score is compared to a prior test score, it is referred to as what type of assessment?

1. Ipsative assessment

2. Norm-referenced assessment

3. Criterion-referenced assessment

4. Self-contained assessment

The correct answer is: Norm-referenced assessment

The correct identification of the type of assessment in this scenario is an ipsative assessment. An ipsative assessment involves comparing an individual's current test score to their previous test scores, allowing for personal measurement of progress or change over time. This type of assessment is often used in contexts where the focus is on an individual's development or learning trajectory rather than on how they perform relative to others. Norm-referenced assessments compare an individual's score to the scores of a representative group, allowing for ranking and interpretation against the norm. Criterion-referenced assessments evaluate an individual's performance against a predetermined set of criteria or learning standards, not based on previous scores. Self-contained assessments do not specifically reference any standard method; instead, it usually refers to assessments that are standalone and comprehensive within their context, lacking external reference points. Understanding the nature of each type of assessment helps clarify the distinction between normative comparisons and personal growth evaluations. In this case, the focus on prior test scores aligns with the principles of ipsative assessment.