What best defines criterion-referenced assessment?

The best definition of criterion-referenced assessment is that it measures performance against a set standard. This type of assessment focuses on determining whether an individual meets specific criteria or standards that have been established for a particular skill or knowledge area.

In criterion-referenced assessments, the evaluation is independent of how others perform. Instead, individuals are assessed based on predefined benchmarks or objectives, which allows for a clear understanding of what constitutes acceptable or exceptional performance. This approach is particularly useful in educational and training settings where the goal is to ascertain if learners have acquired certain skills or knowledge, as opposed to simply ranking their abilities relative to their peers.

This method emphasizes the importance of mastery of content and skills, promoting a clearer framework for both learners and educators to understand progress and areas needing improvement. The other options pertain to different kinds of assessments or misconceptions about the nature of criterion-referenced assessments.