What is the purpose of formative evaluation?

The purpose of formative evaluation is to identify areas needing improvement during the learning process. This type of evaluation takes place while instruction is still ongoing, allowing both instructors and students to gain insights into the effectiveness of teaching methods and learning strategies. It focuses on continuous feedback and adjustments, enabling educators to tailor their approaches to meet the evolving needs of students. By identifying challenges and successes in real-time, formative evaluation supports learners in achieving mastery of the material and enhances their overall educational experience.

In contrast, other evaluation types such as summative evaluations are aimed at assessing overall effectiveness after the instructional period has concluded or to summarize a student’s performance upon completion of a course or program. These evaluations do not provide the same opportunities for immediate improvement or adjustment in instruction, which is the hallmark of formative evaluation.