Discuss three types of assessment with their advantages with references
1. Formative Assessment:
Formative assessment involves gathering information about students' knowledge and understanding of a subject throughout the learning process. It is typically used to provide feedback and guide instruction, allowing teachers to modify their teaching methods to better meet students' needs. Some advantages of formative assessment include:
- Improved Learning: Formative assessment helps students become more actively engaged in their own learning and encourages them to take responsibility for their progress. It provides immediate feedback, allowing students to identify their strengths and weaknesses and make the necessary adjustments to improve their learning.
- Personalized Instruction: By regularly assessing students' understanding, teachers can tailor their instruction to cater to individual needs. They can identify struggling students and address their specific areas of difficulty, ultimately improving learning outcomes.
Reference: Harlen, W. (2007). Assessment of learning. London: SAGE Publications.
2. Summative Assessment:
Summative assessment is used to evaluate students' learning and achievement at the end of a unit, course, or an academic year. It is typically used to assign grades or determine whether students have met specific learning standards. Some advantages of summative assessment include:
- Accountability: Summative assessment provides a measure of accountability for both students and educators. It allows educators to evaluate whether students have met the desired learning outcomes and provides a basis for assigning grades.
- Performance Feedback: While the primary function of summative assessment is to evaluate student learning, it can also provide valuable feedback to students. By understanding their strengths and weaknesses in a specific subject area, students can identify areas for improvement and adjust their learning strategies.
Reference: Black, P., & Wiliam, D. (1998). Assessment and classroom learning. Assessment in Education, 5(1), 7-74.
3. Criterion-Referenced Assessment:
Criterion-referenced assessment measures student performance against a set of predetermined criteria or standards. It is used to determine whether students have achieved specific learning objectives or competencies. Some advantages of criterion-referenced assessment include:
- Clear Expectations: Criterion-referenced assessment provides clear and specific expectations for students, allowing them to understand what they need to achieve. This clarity helps to motivate students and focus their learning efforts.
- Standards-Based Instruction: By aligning assessment with specific learning objectives or standards, criterion-referenced assessment ensures that instruction is focused on these desired outcomes. It promotes a more targeted and intentional approach to teaching and learning.
Reference: Gronlund, N. E. (2003). Assessment of student achievement (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Allyn and Bacon.
It is important to note that each type of assessment has its own strengths and limitations, and their effectiveness may vary depending on the context and purpose of assessment.