Which validity type evaluates whether test scores align with a known criterion as a standard?

• A. Concurrent validity
• B. Criterion validity
• C. Predictive validity
• D. Generalizability

Answer: (B)

Criterion validity focuses on how well test scores match up with an external standard or criterion. The external criterion serves as the known standard, and you compare the test results to it to see if higher test scores reflect better performance on that standard. If the alignment is strong, the test has good criterion validity. Concurrent validity is about the criterion measured at the same time, while predictive validity looks at whether the test predicts a future criterion. Generalizability concerns applying findings to other groups or settings, not alignment with a standard.