This module describes standard setting for achievement measures used in education, licensure, and certification. On completing the module, readers will be able to: describe what standard setting is, why it is necessary, what some of the purposes of standard setting are, and what professional guidelines apply to the design and conduct of a standard-setting procedure; differentiate among different models of standard setting; calculate a cutting score using various methods; identify appropriate sources of validity evidence and threats to the validity of a standard-setting procedure; and list some elements to be considered when evaluating the success of a standard-setting procedure. A self-test and annotated bibliography are provided at the end of the module. Teaching aids to accompany the module are available through NCME.

Keywords:  cut score, Bookmark method, compromise method, Ebel method, examinee-based method, proficiency classification, standard setting, validity