Formative versus Summative Assessment

Considering postgraduate education as a form of work-based learning, ongoing assessment during normal work activities can frame a better picture of students’ overall performance. Further, the educational value of formative assessment might have more impact on an individual student’s learning than terminal assessment, provided that it is conducted in a threat-free environment that allows the student to reveal both strengths and weaknesses. Formative assessment has a positive impact on learning because it not only motivates and encourages students to be involved in the process, but it also monitors and provides students with real-time feedback on their performance 3 . Further, formative assessment helps shape the students’ future learning, and helps ensure that students progress in their learning and future academic achievement.