Achievement tests

Achievement tests are used to measure the degree to which examinees can demonstrate acquisition, and in many cases application, of knowledge and skills taught and deemed important for future learning or work. The contexts in which these tests are used range from teacher-made testing in elementary and secondary schools to high-stakes testing for college admission, licensure to practice a profession, or certification. The design of achievement tests varies depending on the use of the test and whether the inference from examinees’ scores is intended to be about an absolute or relative level of mastery of specific knowledge and skills.