What type of test is generally preferred over standardized tests for measuring learning mastery?

Teacher developed tests are generally preferred over standardized tests for measuring learning mastery because they can be specifically tailored to reflect the unique curriculum and instructional strategies of a particular classroom or educational setting. These tests allow educators to assess students based on the exact content they have been taught and the competencies they are expected to master. This customization helps to provide a more accurate picture of a student's understanding and skills in relation to the specific learning objectives.

In addition, teacher developed tests can include various assessment formats, such as performance tasks, projects, or open-ended responses, which can capture a broader range of student abilities and understanding than standardized tests, which tend to focus on selected response formats and a narrower scope of content. This adaptability can enable teachers to assess higher-order thinking skills and other competencies that may not be adequately measured by standardized assessments.

Furthermore, teacher developed tests facilitate immediate feedback and ongoing assessment, allowing teachers to make instructional adjustments based on student performance. This formative aspect aligns with best practices in education, as it promotes a growth mindset and encourages continuous learning rather than just measuring achievement at a single point in time.