Assessing Student Learning

This short video reviews the three types of assessment (diagnostic, formative and summative) and considers some implications of assessment.

Assessing Student Learning: Understanding Diagnostic, Formative, and Summative Assessments

Assessing student learning is an essential part of teaching, allowing educators to understand what students know, what they’re struggling with, and how they’re progressing. This approach involves three main types of assessments: diagnostic, formative, and summative. Each type serves a unique purpose in helping both teachers and students maximize the learning experience. Here’s a look at how these assessments work and why they’re important.

Diagnostic Assessment: Understanding Where Students Start

Diagnostic assessments are conducted before instruction begins to gauge students’ prior knowledge, skill levels, and interests. By identifying what students already know, educators can tailor their instruction to better meet individual needs. For example, diagnostic assessments might reveal that some students have practical knowledge in a subject but lack a theoretical foundation, while others might have the opposite experience.

Examples of Diagnostic Assessments:

Prior knowledge and skill checks
Interest and learning preference surveys

Since diagnostic assessments focus on students’ starting points rather than their mastery, they’re usually not graded. Instead, they provide valuable insights that help teachers plan lessons and differentiate instruction for students at varying levels.

Formative Assessment: Guiding Learning Through Feedback

Formative assessments take place during instruction and are used to monitor student progress. Unlike summative assessments, which evaluate learning at the end of a unit, formative assessments offer ongoing feedback that helps students and teachers adjust their approaches as needed.

Formative assessments are also typically not graded but serve as signals for both teachers and students. For instance, quizzes with multiple attempts allow students to gauge their understanding and identify areas for improvement.

Examples of Formative Assessments:

Quizzes with feedback
Drafts and outlines for larger projects
Concept maps or learning logs

By using formative assessments, teachers can provide timely feedback that encourages students to reflect on their learning practices and make adjustments as needed.

Summative Assessment: Measuring Learning at the End

Summative assessments are conducted after instruction to evaluate what students have learned. These assessments, which include tests, final exams, and culminating projects, are graded and carry a significant weight in determining a student’s performance.

While summative assessments often command the most attention, they’re not the only form of assessment that matters. In fact, relying solely on summative assessments can limit students’ chances to improve. Integrating diagnostic and formative assessments ensures a more comprehensive approach to student learning.

Key Considerations for Effective Assessment

Assessing student learning goes beyond just giving grades. Here are some essential considerations to keep in mind:

Alignment with Instruction: Ensure that assessments align with what has been taught. For instance, if students are expected to give a presentation, make sure they’ve been given guidance on presentation skills rather than assuming they already know them.
Authentic Assessments: Assessments should engage students with real-world problems and tasks. When students see the connection between assessments and real-life applications, they’re more likely to understand the relevance of what they’re learning.
Variety in Assessment Opportunities: Rather than relying on a few high-stakes assessments (like a midterm and final), consider incorporating multiple lower-stakes assessments. This approach allows students to demonstrate knowledge in different ways and reduces the pressure associated with high-stakes tests.
Student Self-Assessment and Goal Setting: Encourage students to evaluate their own progress and set personal learning goals. For example, students can reflect on their contributions to a discussion board or their progress on a project, helping them take ownership of their learning.

Building a Supportive Assessment Environment

Effective assessment isn’t just about measuring knowledge; it’s about fostering a growth-oriented environment. Here are a few strategies to help create a supportive atmosphere for assessment:

Ipsative Assessment: Allow students to compare their current performance with past performance to encourage growth. For instance, initial challenges in the course shouldn’t negatively affect a student’s overall grade if they improve over time. This approach helps students develop confidence and resilience.
Combatting Learned Helplessness: Some students, especially those who have struggled in certain subjects, may experience learned helplessness—a feeling of powerlessness rooted in past failures. By offering frequent, supportive assessments, teachers can help students build self-efficacy, encouraging them to believe in their ability to succeed.
Regular Feedback: Providing feedback early and often is key to helping students adjust their learning strategies. Feedback helps them recognize what’s working, identify areas that need improvement, and maintain motivation.
Encouraging Self-Efficacy: The belief in one’s own ability to affect outcomes is crucial for student motivation. When students feel they have the ability to succeed, they’re more likely to invest in their learning. Regular, low-stakes assessments help boost self-efficacy by providing students with opportunities to succeed and build confidence.

Conclusion: A Balanced Approach to Assessment

Effective assessment balances diagnostic, formative, and summative measures, offering students a variety of ways to demonstrate their learning. By using a mix of assessment types, teachers can create a more inclusive and supportive learning environment where students feel empowered to improve and succeed.

Remember, assessment isn’t just about grading—it’s about guiding students toward their learning goals, helping them build self-confidence, and fostering a love for lifelong learning. By considering these principles in your approach to assessment, you can help students not only meet academic standards but also develop the skills and mindsets necessary for future success.

Learn at a Distance