Which type of test must be administered and scored according to the manual?

The reason standardized tests must be administered and scored according to the manual is that they are designed to provide a consistent and reliable measure of specific skills or knowledge across a large population. These tests undergo rigorous development processes to ensure they yield valid results that can be compared to established norms. The administration guidelines outlined in the manual ensure that all test-takers are measured under the same conditions and using the same procedures, which is critical for maintaining the integrity and validity of the test scores.

The manual provides specific instructions on timing, test environment, and scoring criteria, which are essential elements that allow for the proper interpretation of results. This consistency is crucial, as it allows educators, practitioners, and researchers to make informed decisions based on standardized data.

In contrast, formative assessments are typically more flexible and intended for continuous feedback during the learning process, while informal assessments do not have set protocols for administration or scoring. Diagnostic assessments may follow certain guidelines but are not as strictly regulated as standardized tests. The standardized nature of the first type ensures that it is the most rigorously controlled compared to the others, which contribute to varied assessment practices.