What does criterion validity assess in the context of an assessment?

Criterion validity is a type of validity that measures how well one variable or set of results predicts an outcome based on another variable or criterion. In the context of an assessment, this means that a test or measurement is evaluated by how effectively it can predict performance or behavior in a related context. For instance, if a particular assessment is designed to predict a child's success in later academic achievements, criterion validity would determine the extent to which scores on the assessment can accurately forecast those future achievements.

This focus on prediction is crucial because it helps educators and researchers ascertain that the assessment is not just measuring knowledge or skills in isolation but is meaningfully connected to real-world outcomes or relevant benchmarks. Thus, establishing that an assessment has criterion validity strengthens its usefulness and credibility in educational settings where outcomes are significant.