What's the difference between formative vs summative assessments?

Assessment? Is this a fancy name for a test?

No, it's not always a test! An assessment is a vital part of teaching and learning. Its purpose is to:

• Gather information to understand what students know as a result of their education or experience.

• Review multiple sources to develop a learning schedule.

• Collect data on student learning and make inferences to improve programs.

Knowing one type of assessment from another can be a helpful way to support your learning. Let's look at two popular types: formative and summative assessment.

An assessment identifies your strengths and weaknesses on a specific topic during learning. It considers your readiness based on:

• Goals

• Objectives

• Prior knowledge and experience

Formative Assessment:

• During learning for needed improvements and not graded

Summative Assessment:

• After learning is complete and graded to an objective standard

Formative Assessment

• Low-stakes quizzes

• Reflection journals

• Q&A assignments

• In-class activities

• Observations

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Summative Assessment

• Final exams

• Final projects

• Term papers

• In-class presentations

• Performances

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• Identify if you should proceed to the next level

• Opportunity to refresh your memory of knowledge

• Offers variety from traditional testing

Grades give you an idea of where you stand on a topic. They help you to measure and track your progress.