FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of assessment encourages creativity and higher-level thinking in students?

1. Standardized test

2. Performance-based assessment

3. Diagnostic assessment

4. Formative assessment

The correct answer is: Performance-based assessment

The choice of performance-based assessment is apt because this type of assessment allows students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills through the creation of a product or by performing a task. It encourages creativity as students often have the freedom to approach a problem in various ways and to produce unique solutions or works. This method also fosters higher-level thinking, as students must analyze, synthesize, and apply their knowledge, rather than simply recalling facts. Unlike standardized tests, which typically focus on rote memorization and factual recall, performance-based assessments require deeper understanding and application of concepts, supporting the development of critical thinking skills. Such assessments also provide opportunities for real-world applicability, where students can engage in tasks that mimic actual situations they may face in their future careers or personal lives, further enhancing their learning experience.