What characteristic defines a formative assessment?

A formative assessment is primarily characterized by its function to monitor ongoing learning and provide feedback that can enhance the learning process. This type of assessment is typically conducted throughout the course or learning experience, allowing educators to gauge students’ understanding, skills, and progress at various stages. By doing so, it enables adjustments to instruction and support for students as they learn, ensuring that they grasp the material before moving on.

The idea of formative assessments being conducted regularly reflects their nature of informing both educators and learners about areas that may need improvement or deeper understanding. This feedback mechanism is essential for fostering a supportive learning environment and encourages continuous development, which is why it is a defining trait of formative assessments.