Certified Rehabilitation Counselor Practice

Which score interpretation is least affected by individual variability over time?

1. Norm referenced interpretation

2. Criterion referenced interpretation

3. Self referenced interpretation

4. Percentage interpretation

The correct answer is: Criterion referenced interpretation

Criterion referenced interpretation is least affected by individual variability over time because it assesses an individual's performance against a defined set of standards or criteria rather than comparing them to others. This method establishes specific benchmarks that remain consistent, allowing for a stable measure of an individual's capabilities related to a specific skill or knowledge area. When individuals are held against the same criteria or standards, fluctuations in performance due to temporary factors, such as mood or environmental conditions, have less impact on the interpretation of their scores. Other types of interpretations, like norm referenced interpretation, compare an individual's score to a normative group, which can change over time as the group’s performance levels shift. Self referenced interpretation looks at an individual's past performances, but this can also reflect individual variability over different times in their life. Similarly, percentage interpretation can fluctuate based on varying test difficulty and changes in the population's performance. These factors make criterion referenced interpretation a more stable choice for assessing performance over time.