What is a primary problem with local norms in program evaluation?

The primary problem with local norms in program evaluation is that they may be confused with national standards. Local norms are derived from a specific community or school's data and reflect the performance levels of students in that particular setting. This can lead to misconceptions when local norms are interpreted as being on the same level as national standards, which encompass a wider and more diverse population.

When educators or policymakers use local norms, they need to be cautious about comparing those norms to national benchmarks. If local performance metrics are misinterpreted as being representative of national expectations, it can lead to misleading conclusions about student achievement, program effectiveness, and the overall educational quality within that locality. Understanding these distinctions is critical for accurate program evaluations and can inform more appropriate instructional strategies and resource allocations.