How does feedback differ between formative and summative assessments?

The distinction between formative and summative assessments is crucial in understanding their roles in the learning process. Summative feedback is specifically designed to evaluate a learner's performance at the conclusion of a training period, such as at the end of a course or unit. This type of assessment serves to measure what students have learned and whether they have achieved the desired outcomes and objectives.

Summative assessments often take the form of final exams, projects, or presentations that provide a comprehensive overview of a student’s understanding and skills at a specific point in time. The feedback provided from these assessments typically highlights overall performance, identifies areas for improvement, and may influence future instructional decisions or adjustments in curriculum.

In contrast, formative assessments are ongoing and primarily focus on the learning process itself. They occur during the instructional phase and provide real-time feedback to both learners and instructors. This feedback helps to identify strengths and weaknesses in understanding or skills, allowing for adjustments and support throughout the learning process. Summative feedback is therefore different from formative feedback, which does not evaluate performance at the completion of a training period but rather informs ongoing development.

Thus, summative feedback specifically assesses and evaluates performance at the end of a training period, addressing the student’s overall achievement and comprehension after they have had the chance