What is the difference between formative and summative assessments?

The distinction between formative and summative assessments is fundamental to understanding how educators evaluate and support student learning. Formative assessments are designed to be ongoing and provide continuous feedback both to students and teachers throughout the learning process. These assessments inform instruction by helping teachers identify areas where students may be struggling and adjust their teaching accordingly to meet learners' needs effectively. Examples of formative assessments include quizzes, discussions, or informal observations that occur during the learning journey.

In contrast, summative assessments are conducted after an instructional unit has been completed and are used to evaluate student learning at that specific point in time. They measure what students have learned in relation to the learning objectives. Common summative assessments include final exams, standardized tests, or end-of-term projects. The primary purpose of summative assessments is to gauge the overall effectiveness of the instruction and the depth of understanding students have achieved.

This clear differentiation highlights why the description regarding formative assessments being ongoing and informing instruction, alongside summative assessments evaluating student learning at the end of an instructional unit, accurately captures their roles in the educational process.