What is the difference between formative and summative assessment?

Formative assessment is characterized by its ongoing nature, focusing on monitoring student learning and providing continuous feedback throughout the educational process. It is designed to inform instruction and help both learners and educators identify areas for improvement before a final evaluation occurs. This may include quizzes, discussions, and regular check-ins that allow for adjustments in teaching methods or learning strategies.

In contrast, summative assessment occurs at the end of an instructional period and is aimed at evaluating student learning, skill acquisition, and academic achievement. Common examples include final exams, standardized tests, or major projects, which are intended to measure the cumulative knowledge or skills acquired over a specific timeframe.

The distinction highlights that formative assessments are integral to the learning journey, allowing for responsive teaching, whereas summative assessments are evaluative in nature, often serving as a benchmark for future learning or grades.