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Assessments should compare the performance of students to…

“Assessments should compare the performance of students to a set of expectations, never to the performance of other students.” quote by Alfie Kohn
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“Assessments should compare the performance of students to a set of expectations, never to the performance of other students.”

Alfie Kohn

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

Assessments should measure each student against clear standards, not against peers.

In simple terms: Grades should compare to expectations, not other students.

Key Takeaway

Design fair, standards‑based evaluation.

Themes

education fairness assessment standards equality

Mood

analytical thoughtful

Type

educational philosophical

When to use this quote

  • classroom grading
  • standardized testing
  • personal progress

Key Concepts

norm‑referencing criterion‑referencing learning goals

Questions to Reflect On

  • How can you ensure assessments stay criteria‑focused?
  • What alternatives exist to peer ranking?
A Different Perspective

Peer comparison can still influence perception.

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