How norm groups help interpret a score
Explore how a norm group gives a test score a comparison context.
The picture in words
- Raw score
- Begin with the result on the task.
- Norm group
- Compare with a relevant reference group.
- Interpretation
- Consider the test purpose and measurement quality.
Reading the illustration
Follow the steps for a norm-referenced interpretation. The appropriate comparison group depends on the test and its intended use.
Try a question
What would you ask before comparing two people’s test scores?
Show the explanation
Ask whether they took comparable measures under appropriate conditions and whether the reference group suits the interpretation.
Read the sources
- Spielman, R. M., Jenkins, W. J., & Lovett, M. D. (2020). Psychology 2e. OpenStax. https://openstax.org/books/psychology-2e/pages/7-5-measures-of-intelligenceSelected rendered passage on standardization and norm groups, reviewed in the topic-selection research.