Conventional reliability coefficients computed for criterion-referenced tests are typically quite low because criterion-referenced tests
A) provide wide variation in scores.
B) cover a broad sample of content.
C) cover a limited sample of behavior.
D) yield criterion scores which tend to be variable.
E) provide little variation in scores.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Criterion-referenced tests are designed to measure whether each test-taker has achieved specific skills or knowledge, rather than comparing test-takers to each other. This focus often results in most test-takers scoring either very high (if they have mastered the content) or very low (if they have not), leading to little variation in scores across the group. This lack of variability can result in lower reliability coefficients, as these coefficients often depend on variability to calculate consistency.

Conventional Reliability Coefficients Computed for Criterion-Referenced Tests Are Typically Quite