What type of tests are practical tests for pilot certification considered?

Practical tests for pilot certification are correctly identified as criterion-referenced tests. This means that the assessments measure a candidate's performance against a defined set of standards or criteria established for proficiency in specific skills and knowledge necessary for safe aviation operations.

In criterion-referenced testing, the goal is to determine whether an individual meets predetermined performance standards. For example, during a practical flying test, a pilot is evaluated on their ability to perform specific maneuvers and tasks to the established requirements set forth by regulatory bodies. This allows for a clear determination of whether the pilot possesses the skills required to obtain their certification, regardless of the performance of other pilots undergoing the same evaluation.

This differs fundamentally from norm-referenced tests, which compare an individual's performance to that of a larger group to rank or classify them. Additionally, it is distinct from selection type tests and standardized tests, which may have broader applications beyond skill demonstration and could involve varying formats and scoring methods. Criterion-referenced assessments focus solely on confirming whether the candidate meets the specific criteria necessary for their certification, making it the appropriate classification for practical pilot tests.