How do standardized tests measure knowledge, skills, and abilities?
Standardized tests measure knowledge, skills, and abilities by using two general types of assessment formats – selected response and open response. Many tests use a combination of both formats. The most common type of selected-response assessment (often called objective testing) is the multiple-choice test, where students select the correct answer to a question among several possible choices. Other types of selected-response assessments include true-false and matching. Open-response or constructed response assessments (also called performance assessment) require students to create their own answer to a question or task. The most common type of open-response assessment is the essay test, where students create a written composition presenting their own viewpoints. Other types of open-response assessments include: short answer, fill-in-the-blank, gridded response, math solutions, oral presentations, lab experiments, exhibitions, performances, and portfolios.
