Final answer:
CAT adjusts the difficulty of questions in real time based on the performance of the test-taker, while non-adaptive testing maintains a consistent level of difficulty throughout. CAT provides a more personalized and efficient assessment method, potentially offering better equity and accuracy.
Step-by-step explanation:
Computerized Adaptive Testing (CAT) is different from non-adaptive testing because a) CAT adjusts difficulty based on test-taker performance, while non-adaptive testing keeps a fixed difficulty level. Non-adaptive tests do not change in difficulty as the test progresses; they have a set difficulty level that all test-takers experience, regardless of their ability or performance. Cats, on the other hand, alter the difficulty of questions throughout the test based on the individual's previous answers, providing a tailored testing experience that can quickly assess the test-takers level of competence more efficiently than traditional non-adaptive tests.
Such adaptive testing has proven to be more equitable and accurate, addressing some of the issues with tests like the SAT or ACT that have been criticized for their bias and questionable predictive validity. Furthermore, as tests continue to evolve, the approach exemplified by CAT might be seen as a way to improve testing methods and make them more appropriate for different age groups, abilities, and contexts.