What is the difference between formative and summative assessment?

The distinction lies in the timing and purpose of the assessments. Formative assessment is designed to evaluate students' understanding and progress during the instructional process. It provides ongoing feedback to both the instructor and the learners, allowing for adjustments to teaching strategies and learning activities in real time. This type of assessment helps in identifying areas that require reinforcement before moving on to more complex topics.

On the other hand, summative assessment occurs at the conclusion of an instructional period or unit. It aims to evaluate what learners have achieved at the end of the course, ensuring that they have met the learning objectives. This type of assessment often takes the form of final exams, projects, or other evaluative measures that summarize students' learning outcomes.

Understanding this difference is essential for educators, as it influences how they structure their teaching and assessment strategies to promote effective learning and ensure that students are supported throughout their educational experience.