Diagnostic AssessmentsDiagnostic assessments are tools used in various fields that seek to pinpoint one's status, such a medical condition or level of function in school. Such determinations typically requires more than one specific test administered on more than one occasion.For example, educators are interested in each student's level of performance at the beginning of a school year. Knowing each student's knowledge and skills gives clues to his or her specific learning needs related to the curriculum. In much the same way, medical professionals typically run batteries of tests (e.g., blood tests, EKGs) to order to identify specific conditions. Based upon test results, they are able to rule out certain conditions until only one remains. Once a patient's condition is correctly diagnosed, they can treat it properly. Most assessments are norm-based, meaning that any person's score is compared to others along the normal curve. His or her positon on any test shows whether or not he or she is "within normal ranges" and, if not, what it will take (instructionally or medically) to help him or her meet or, in some cases depending upon the situation, exceed to what is typical. Related pages: Formative Assessments Placement Tests Summative Assessment
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