What type of assessment should a school counselor prioritize when selecting standardized tests for curriculum decisions?

Standardized assessments should be prioritized by school counselors when selecting tests for curriculum decisions because these assessments provide a consistent and objective measure of student performance across a wide population. Standardized assessments are designed to be administered and scored in a consistent manner, enabling comparisons between students, schools, and educational programs. This data is critical for making informed curriculum decisions, as it reflects the effectiveness of instructional methods and can identify areas where students may need additional support or resources.

Additionally, standardized assessments often align with state or national benchmarks, making them valuable for evaluating whether students are meeting educational standards and for ensuring that curriculum adjustments are evidence-based. These assessments contribute to accountability measures within educational systems, helping schools to demonstrate their effectiveness and alignment with required learning outcomes.