Which assessment approach is characterized by ongoing feedback during the learning process rather than ranking at the end?

Which assessment approach is characterized by ongoing feedback during the learning process rather than ranking at the end?

• A. Comparative evaluation
• B. Summative evaluation
• C. Formative assessment
• D. Peer evaluation

Answer: (C)

Ongoing feedback during the learning process to guide improvements is the hallmark of formative assessment. It’s designed to monitor progress as students work, highlight misunderstandings, and provide timely guidance so instruction can be adjusted and students can close gaps before final evaluation. In contrast, summative evaluation happens after learning to assign a final grade or determine mastery. Comparative evaluation focuses on ranking or comparing performance relative to others, not on guiding learning in real time. Peer evaluation involves students assessing one another, which can support feedback, but the defining idea here is feedback that informs ongoing learning.

Ongoing feedback during the learning process to guide improvements is the hallmark of formative assessment. It’s designed to monitor progress as students work, highlight misunderstandings, and provide timely guidance so instruction can be adjusted and students can close gaps before final evaluation. In contrast, summative evaluation happens after learning to assign a final grade or determine mastery. Comparative evaluation focuses on ranking or comparing performance relative to others, not on guiding learning in real time. Peer evaluation involves students assessing one another, which can support feedback, but the defining idea here is feedback that informs ongoing learning.