Which type of scale can be used to compare student performance against specific established standards?

A rating scale is an effective tool for comparing student performance against specific established standards because it allows instructors to evaluate various aspects of a student's performance across a defined set of criteria. This type of scale typically utilizes a numerical or descriptive format where students' actions or knowledge are gauged against standardized benchmarks.

When employing a rating scale, instructors can assign scores that reflect the quality, frequency, or completeness of a student's work, which facilitates objective measurement of their progress and capabilities. This systematic approach helps ensure that assessments are consistent and focused directly on predetermined educational objectives.

In contrast, a checklist serves more as a simple confirmation of task completion rather than an evaluation of performance quality; performance checklists are typically used for specific skills but may not provide a nuanced measurement of competency. A Likert scale, although effective for measuring attitudes or opinions, is not suited for direct comparisons of performance against standards in educational settings.