Which type of testing is essential for measuring retention in technical skills?

Performance testing is crucial for measuring retention in technical skills because it directly assesses a learner's ability to apply what they have learned in a practical, hands-on environment. This form of testing focuses on how well an individual can demonstrate specific skills that have been taught, ensuring that they not only understand the theoretical aspects but can also execute them in real-world situations.

In technical fields, where skill application is often paramount, performance testing helps instructors evaluate whether students can perform tasks correctly and efficiently, confirming their retention of the material over time. This form of assessment gives valuable feedback about a learner’s competency and readiness to perform tasks independently.

Other types of testing, such as cognitive testing, primarily evaluate knowledge retention and understanding of concepts, while affective testing focuses on attitudes and values. Behavioral testing can assess observable actions but may not necessarily measure the skilled performance needed in technical disciplines. Therefore, performance testing stands out as the most effective way to measure retention of technical skills in practical applications.