Video

This presentation looks at the two primary types of student assessments in use today, summative and formative assessments. It contrasts the two types of use in terms of their characteristics and applications, and discusses issues surrounding their use. The argument is made that summative evaluation is given much greater attention and financial resources are squandered on summative evaluation practices. A case for greater attention given to formative assessment is presented. Suggestions are made for when and how formative assessment can effectively be used in classrooms along with key attributes that must be greatly improved if formative assessment is to reach its potential for improving student learning.