Plain English Meaning
A test that checks whether you can do specific things to a set standard. You pass by meeting the standard itself, not by beating other people's scores.
Full Definition
An assessment method that measures a student's performance against a fixed, predefined standard or set of objectives, rather than against the performance of other students. The student either meets the required criteria or does not, regardless of how anyone else scored.
Context Anchor
Seen in instructor training and flight training assessment discussions, especially when deciding whether a student has met the standard for a lesson, maneuver, or knowledge area.
Derivation
From Latin 'criterion,' meaning a standard for judging. The test is 'referenced to' (measured against) that fixed standard, which is why it is called criterion-referenced.
Why Pilots Care
Ensures certification decisions rest on demonstrated competency against - rather than competition among students.