What is a characteristic of a norm-referenced instrument?

A characteristic of a norm-referenced instrument is that it compares an individual's performance against a normative sample. This means that the results from an individual's assessment are interpreted in relation to the performance of a larger group, typically a representative sample that shares similar characteristics, such as age or skill level. This comparison allows for the determination of where an individual stands in relation to others, which can be critical for identifying strengths, weaknesses, and potential areas for intervention.

In contrast, instruments that assess skills in actual contexts focus on practical abilities and real-life functioning, rather than comparisons with a normative group. Evaluating specific tasks tends to be more aligned with criterion-referenced assessments, which measure performance based on predefined standards. Finally, measuring skills over time involves longitudinal assessments, which track progress and changes rather than providing immediate comparative data against a normative sample. This emphasizes the unique purpose of norm-referenced instruments in evaluating an individual's performance relative to that of a broader population.