Most state tests measure student performance on the state's own curriculum standards. Curriculum standards are what policymakers and citizens consider important for students to know and be able to do. State tests allow comparison of results over time within the state, and in most cases, give individual student scores to allow parents to track their child’s progress. State tests do not provide comparisons of results with other states or the nation. NAEP is the only assessment that allows comparison of results from one state with another, or with results nationwide.
It is important to note that the term "proficiency" used in relation to performance on state tests does not have the same meaning as the term
Proficient on the NAEP
achievement levels because the criteria used to determine proficiency are different.
While the two assessment types differ in substantial ways, state achievement tests and NAEP help educators and policymakers develop a comprehensive picture of student performance.
The NAEP program helps states answer questions such as these:
- How does the performance of students in my state compare with the performance of students in other states with similar resources or students?
- How does my state's performance compare with the region's?
- Are my state's gains in student performance keeping up with the pace of improvement in other states?