FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What type of evaluation involves students completing a demanding task and responding through various formats?

1. Performance assessment

2. Formative assessment

3. Summative assessment

4. Portfolio assessment

The correct answer is: Performance assessment

The correct choice involves performance assessment, which is characterized by students engaging in complex tasks that require them to apply their knowledge and skills in practical situations. This type of evaluation allows students to demonstrate their understanding and proficiency through various formats, such as presentations, projects, or problem-solving activities. Performance assessments are often designed to mimic real-world challenges, encouraging critical thinking and creativity. Other evaluation types do not share this same focus on practical, task-based demonstrations. For example, formative assessment is typically ongoing and meant to monitor student learning and provide feedback throughout the instructional process, rather than assessing a final outcome through a demanding task. Summative assessments usually occur at the end of a learning cycle to evaluate overall learning, relying more on tests or quizzes rather than complex tasks. Portfolio assessment involves students compiling a collection of work over time to showcase their learning but is less focused on a singular demanding task that requires immediate application of skills in various formats.