How does formative assessment differ from summative assessment?

Formative assessment is an ongoing process designed to monitor student learning and provide feedback that can be used by instructors to improve their teaching and by students to enhance their learning. This type of assessment gathers information during the instructional process, allowing educators to identify areas where students may struggle and adjust their teaching strategies accordingly. Examples include quizzes, discussions, and observations that are used to gauge student understanding in real-time.

On the other hand, summative assessment occurs at the conclusion of a unit or course and is intended to evaluate student learning against a set standard or benchmark. These assessments typically culminate in a final exam, project, or standardized test that measures what students have learned and how well they can apply their knowledge after completing the instructional period.

Understanding the distinct functions of these assessments is crucial for effective teaching. Formative assessments help shape the learning process, while summative assessments provide a final measure of learning outcomes.