Formative and Summative Assessment: Differences with Examples [UGC NET Notes]

Two important methods for assessing student learning and directing instruction are formative and summative assessments. Throughout the learning process, formative assessment is conducted to give teachers and students continuous feedback. It facilitates the identification of areas of strength and growth, enabling real-time instruction modification. Summative assessments, on the other hand, are used to gauge students' progress at the conclusion of a learning session. When taken as a whole, these tests offer a thorough grasp of students' development and support more efficient instruction.

Moreover, candidates who are preparing for the teaching exams like UGC NET Paper 1 are advised to read this post thoroughly to understand all parameters related to the formative assistant and submissive assistant. 

In this article the readers will be able to know about the following:

• Types of Assessments
• Formative Assessment
• Types of Formative Assessments
• Characteristics of Formative Assessment
• Summative Assessment
• Types of Summative Assessments
• Characteristics of Summative Assessment
• Differences Between Formative and Summative Assessment
• Examples of Formative and Summative Assessment

Types of Assessments

Assessments of various kinds are used in education to gauge the growth and learning of students. Formative assessments, which include quizzes, class discussions, and homework, are continuous evaluations that help teachers modify their lessons to better suit the needs of their students. Summative assessments, such as final exams or standardized tests, are used to gauge students' learning at the conclusion of a course. Before instruction starts, diagnostic tests are administered to determine students' current knowledge, areas of strength, and areas for development. Additionally, students must apply their knowledge in creative or real-world contexts for performance-based assessments like projects, presentations, or portfolios. Every kind of assessment has a distinct function and, when combined, offers a complete picture of students' learning.

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Teachers use formative assessment to monitor student learning while they are instructing. It aids educators in determining whether pupils grasp the material or require additional support.

To discover out, they might pose queries, assign quick assignments, or engage in educational games. It's merely meant to improve your learning; you don't receive any grades or marks for it.

It's similar to receiving subtle cues to get better before the big test!

Types of Formative Assessments

Teachers use formative assessments as a tool to track student understanding and direct instruction during the learning process. They offer prompt feedback to enhance student performance and assist in identifying learning gaps.

• Quizzes: Quick tests give teachers and students immediate feedback while assessing their understanding of particular subjects. They can be used often to monitor progress and have minimal stakes.
• Class Discussions: By involving students in discussions, teachers can gauge their comprehension by listening to their participation and vocal responses. Additionally, it promotes active learning and critical thinking.
• Exit Tickets: Students write a brief answer to a question or a synopsis of what they learned at the conclusion of a lesson. This aids educators in determining which concepts were grasped and which require further explanation.
• Think-Pair-Share: Before presenting a question to the class, students consider it and then talk about it with a partner. This method reveals personal understanding and encourages group learning.
• Observation: By monitoring students' conduct, involvement, and engagement during activities, teachers can evaluate their learning. It offers useful but informal insight into students' comprehension.
• Peer assessment teaches students how to provide and accept constructive criticism by having them assess each other's work according to predetermined standards. By examining the work of others, it also broadens their comprehension.
• Self-assessment: Using rating scales or checklists, students consider their own performance and progress. This promotes accountability and aids in pinpointing their areas of development.

Characteristics of Formative Assessment

Teachers can better understand how their students are learning during a class by using formative assessment. Before the final exam, it provides an opportunity for both professors and students to improve and correct errors.

Continuous Procedure

Throughout your learning process, formative assessments are constantly taking place. There is more than one test; there may be classwork, quick exercises, or questions. It is used by your teacher to assess your performance at each stage of the class. Learning will go more smoothly and easily for you in this method.

Provides Input

Formative evaluation provides you with useful guidance on how to improve. Your teacher could point out your strengths and areas for improvement. Although it is not a grade, this criticism aids in your understanding of your errors. It facilitates better and more intelligent learning.

Enhances Education

This type of evaluation is not meant to mark you; rather, it is meant to help you learn more.

It lets the teacher know where you need extra help or practice. Early assistance makes difficult subjects easier to learn later. As a result, your learning improves daily.

Contains Both the instructor and the pupil

Teachers and students work together to complete formative assessments. Your instructor observes your learning style and provides guidance. You may also discuss what you don't understand and ask questions. Everyone finds learning easier and more enjoyable as a result.

Summative Assessment

A test or exam given at the conclusion of a course or term is known as a summative assessment. After all of the instruction is finished, it assesses your level of learning. You receive scores or marks for this kind of evaluation according to how well you do. End-of-term assessments, large projects, and final exams are a few examples. It demonstrates your knowledge and aids teachers in gauging your level of comprehension.

Types of Summative Assessment

At the conclusion of a unit, term, or course, summative assessments are used to gauge how well students have learned the material. They assess how well pupils have fulfilled learning goals and frequently have a big impact on final grades.

• Final Exams: A significant amount of the material covered in a term or year is covered in these extensive assessments. They evaluate students' general comprehension and subject-matter expertise.
• Standardized tests: These assessments, which are given at the national or regional level, compare the performance of students in various districts or schools. They are intended to gauge proficiency in fundamental subjects like science, math, and reading.
• End-of-Unit Tests: These assessments are given at the conclusion of a unit or chapter to see if students have grasped important ideas and abilities. They aid in determining when a person is ready to move on to new content.
• Projects: Students can exhibit a thorough comprehension of a subject through extended assignments such as research papers or imaginative presentations. They frequently entail using knowledge in practical or multidisciplinary settings.
• Portfolios: An assortment of a student's work over time that demonstrates their accomplishments and growth as learners. Written assignments, artwork, and other products that demonstrate skill development can be included in portfolios.
• Performance Tasks: In order to pass these tests, students must complete an activity or find a solution, frequently in a real-world setting. They assess critical thinking and application abilities in addition to knowledge.

Characteristics of Summative Assessment

Summative assessments are used to evaluate your learning at the conclusion of a term or topic. It assists your teacher in assigning grades or marks according to your level of comprehension of the material.

Takes Place at the End

A summative evaluation is carried out following the conclusion of each session. It is employed to evaluate your level of comprehension of a subject or topic. Usually, it is taken as a final exam, test, or assignment. It lets your teacher know how much you've learned overall. 

Assigns Grades or Marks

The distinctive feature of summative assessments is that they offer scores or grades. You are given grades according to your performance after your answers have been examined. These grades are used on your report card and shared with your parents. They show your growth and make you feel proud of your efforts.

Verifies General Knowledge

This test examines your entire comprehension, not just certain aspects. It examines all of the knowledge you have accumulated throughout time. If you are prepared to advance to the next level, it helps the teacher know. It has a variety of questions and assignments as a result.

Fig: formative and summative assessment method of teaching

Difference Between Formative and Summative Assessment

The difference between formative assessment and summative assessment has been stated below.

The examples of formative and summative assessments help in understanding the topics really well. The aspirants are advised to go through the examples mentioned below

Formative Assessment Examples

Your teacher conducts formative assessments, which are brief tests, to gauge your learning during class. For instance, your teacher may quiz you briefly after a session or pose questions to you during class. You might also share your answers on the board, play an instructive game, or complete a group exercise. These don't typically count against grades and let the teacher know if you need further assistance.

Summative Assessment Examples

The large tests or assignments you complete at the conclusion of a unit or term are known as summative assessments. These consist of large class presentations, end-of-chapter assessments, and final exams. You may also write a report or complete a science project that is graded. These tests are used to provide grades and demonstrate your level of learning.

Conclusion

Summative and formative evaluations have different functions in the educational system. Summative assessment offers a final assessment of overall achievement at the conclusion of a teaching session, whereas formative assessment is a continuous, feedback-oriented process that supports ongoing learning and development. For a thorough grasp of students' academic progress and achievement, both kinds of assessments are necessary. B.Ed. notes for formative and summative assessments will also aid in preparation. 

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