What is the role of formative assessment in education?

The role of formative assessment in education is primarily to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback that can be used to improve both teaching and learning. This approach allows educators to gather information about students' understanding and skills during the learning process rather than waiting until the end of a course or semester. By utilizing formative assessments, teachers can identify areas where students are struggling and adjust their instructional strategies accordingly, thereby enhancing students' engagement and achievement.

This method promotes a responsive learning environment where feedback is continuous and constructive, allowing students to take an active role in their learning journey. By regularly checking in on students' progress, teachers can help learners stay on track, address misconceptions, and celebrate incremental successes as they work towards more comprehensive understanding and skills mastery. In this way, formative assessments serve as a crucial tool to foster a growth mindset and improve overall educational outcomes.