A collection is presented containing four papers dealing with the subject of criterion-referenced testing. This first paper deals with criterion-referenced tests utilizing norm-referenced test items. Aspects covered include a defense of norm-referenced and criterion referenced tests and a justification for the adaptation of norm-referenced test items as a criterion-reference measure. Finally, it is pointed out that the most attractive factors involved in adapting existing norm-referenced test items to criterion-referenced tests are the time- and money-saving possibilities. (For three related papers, see TM 002 862-864) (CK)