Use of the normal distribution in evaluating the learning process

Abstract

Talking about subjects related to assessing the learning process, it is frequent to refer to the normal model of distribution of grades, linking it always with the type of evaluation known as “by norm” and taking it aside in a definite way from the evaluation known as “by criteria”. In addition, it is usually maintained that the first evaluation method is traditional, whereas the second is a modern one. However, such an oversimplification is dangerous and may lead users who are not specialists in evaluation to make serious mistakes.
In this article we attempt to achieve a better understanding of the topic.