Question

Universities often evaluate applicants for admission on the basis of, among other things, the applicants' scores on standardized tests. The scores are thus one of the criteria by which program judge the Quality of their applicants. However, although two programs may use the same criterion - scores on a specific standardized examination-to evaluate applicants, the programs may differ markedly on standards: One program may consider applicants acceptable if they have scores above the 50th percentile, whereas the score above the 90th percentile may be the standard of acceptability for the other program. This example clearly defines the difference between:

A. Sources and structure
B. Criteria and standards
C. Processes and outcomes
D. Efficacy and equity

Answer 1

The example illustrates the difference between criteria, which is the use of standardized test scores for university admissions, and standards, which is the threshold of what scores are acceptable. One program may have a standard at the 50th percentile, while another may set the bar at the 90th percentile.

Step-by-step explanation:

The difference highlighted between two programs using test scores for university admissions but with varied acceptance thresholds is the difference between criteria and standards. Both programs use the same criterion, which is scores on a specific standardized examination to evaluate applicants. However, the standards for what is considered an acceptable score can differ greatly; one program may accept scores above the 50th percentile while another requires scores above the 90th percentile. Percentiles are widely used by colleges and universities as a comparative measure, such as when determining a minimum SAT score for admission. For example, if Duke University accepts SAT scores at or above the 75th percentile, it means a test score of at least 1220 is required for admission consideration.

The University of California uses a formula that incorporates both GPAs and standardized test scores into an admissions index score to admit the top 12 percent of high school students. This means these students fall within the top 88th percentile in terms of their academic achievements compared to their peers. This is an example of setting a high standard for admissions, contrasting significantly with lower standards that might be set by other institutions.