Explain the purpose of a norm group. What are some things you would need to consider, and why, when selecting a norm group for a norm-based test?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

• To make sense of/interpret raw test scores, sometimes we use a norm group.
• We compare an individual’s test score to norms, which are test scores achieved by some identified group of individuals.
• The norms provide us with a standard against which we can compare individual test scores.
• Norms help us answer the question “Where does a test taker stand in comparison with a group that defines the standards?”
• To properly interpret test scores we must use an appropriate reference group, as using an inappropriate norm group can result in very important decisions being made based on poor interpretation of test data.
• The person who interprets test scores must choose the norm group that most closely resembles the test takers, as the norm group chosen can have a significant impact on the interpretation of an individual’s score.
• Test users should be careful to look at the size of the norm group, because the accuracy of interpretation depends on whether the norms chosen accurately summarize the performance of the norm group population. When the population is large and the norm group small, there is greater chance that the norm group is not representative of the entire target population.
• Test users must create and use norms that include a sufficient number of test takers, and the norm groups should include a representative sample of the population.
• Test users should also be careful to use up-to-date norms. Over time, the characteristics and sizes of populations change, and therefore their test scores change. When populations change, tests must be re-normed to ensure continued value of the norms and to facilitate proper interpretation .
• Test users should also be careful when using age and grade norms. If an individual child scores at a higher age or grade level, we should not automatically assume that the child is ready to be placed with older students or in a higher grade. A broader assessment and more than one test score are necessary to determine whether a child would be able to cope with the social and emotional issues the child would face in the company of older students or students in higher grades.