1. A resistive change element array, comprising: a plurality of word lines; a plurality of bit lines; a plurality of resistive change elements, wherein each resistive change element has a first terminal and a second terminal and wherein said first terminal of each resistive change element is in electrical communication with a word line and said second terminal of each resistive change element is in electrical communication with a bit line; at least one resistive reference element, said resistive reference element having a first terminal in electrical communication with a word line and a second terminal in electrical communication with a bit line; and control circuitry in electrical communication with said word lines and bit lies, said control circuitry capable of discharging a preselected voltage and observing a resulting discharge current through at least one of said plurality of resistive change elements and said at least one resistive reference element.