What are formative assessments?

Formative assessments are designed to provide ongoing feedback to both educators and learners during the instructional process. They are meant to be integrated throughout a course, allowing instructors to gauge understanding and adjust teaching methods accordingly. This type of assessment helps identify areas where students may be struggling and informs necessary interventions or support before the final evaluation occurs.

In contrast, assessments that are given only at the end of a course reflect a summative approach, aimed primarily at measuring what students have learned after instruction has concluded. Assignments that do not require feedback lack the essential component of formative assessments, which is to inform and guide student learning. Additionally, saying that assessments are rarely used in classrooms overlooks their vital role in the educational process, as formative assessments are widely encouraged and implemented to enhance student outcomes throughout their learning journey.