What distinguishes a formative evaluation from a summative evaluation?

Formative evaluations are designed to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback that can be used to improve the teaching and learning process. They occur during the instructional process and focus on incremental knowledge checks, helping educators gauge how well students are understanding the material. This type of evaluation emphasizes the development of knowledge and skills over time, allowing instructors to identify areas where students may be struggling and adjust their teaching methods accordingly to support better learning outcomes.

In contrast, summative evaluations are often utilized at the conclusion of an instructional period to assess the overall effectiveness of the course or program. They provide a final judgment on student learning and usually take the form of examinations, final projects, or other cumulative assessments. While formative evaluations are aimed at learning enhancement and ongoing feedback, summative evaluations serve primarily as a measure of achievement and satisfaction with the educational goals set out at the beginning of the course.