Higher Ed Trends
What is an
Achievement Test
An achievement test is an assessment of developed knowledge or skill. The most common type of achievement test is a standardized test, such as the SAT, required for college entry in the United States. Achievement tests are developed to measure skills and knowledge learned in a given grade level, usually through planned instruction, such as training or classroom instruction. Achievement tests are often contrasted with aptitude tests. Aptitude tests are designed to look at potential success in a certain area. If a student is unsure what career path is right for them, they may take an aptitude test. An achievement test is used to gauge what a student already knows about a specific subject.
Achievement tests refer to assessments where scores are often used to determine the level of instruction for which a student is prepared. High achievement scores generally indicate that a level of mastery of grade-level material has been reached, and that the student is prepared for advanced instruction. Conversely, low achievement scores can indicate the need for further remediation or repeating a course grade level.
Why are achievement tests important?
Achievement tests and their design can greatly predict student success rates. A study by Black and William (1998) on the role of assessment in improving learning outcomes found that achievement tests, when combined with formative feedback, significantly enhance student performance. The researchers concluded that providing actionable feedback based on test results can lead to better understanding and retention of material, as well as increased motivation among students.
What are some examples of achievement tests?
There are several types of achievement tests that are broadly used across disciplines. These include the Woodcock-Johnson Tests of Achievement, Scholastic Abilities Test for Adults and Kaufman Test of Educational Achievement. More broadly speaking, there are several types of achievement tests faculty may embed in their curricula. These include final cumulative exams and midterm exams that evaluate students’ understanding of material covered during a term. There are also exit exams that determine if students have achieved the desired learning outcomes of their degree programs. In practice, this may include completing a capstone exam covering topics from the entire course.
The most common type of achievement test is a standardized test. These might include a GRE Subject Test which evaluates students in specific areas such as psychology, mathematics or biology—often used for graduate admissions or placement. There are also ETS Major Field tests which are used to assess a student’s knowledge in specific undergraduate fields, such as business, computer science or literature.
Further Reading
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