FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

Which assessment focuses on providing feedback to enhance learning during the instructional process?

1. Diagnostic assessment

2. Formative assessment

3. Summative assessment

4. Criterion-referenced assessment

The correct answer is: Formative assessment

Formative assessment is a method used during the instructional process to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback that can be used by instructors to improve their teaching and by students to enhance their learning. It is characterized by assessments that occur before or during the learning process, allowing educators to identify areas where students may need more support and to adjust instruction accordingly. Typical examples include quizzes, class discussions, peer reviews, and observational assessments. The primary purpose of formative assessment is to gather qualitative and quantitative data to inform instruction, rather than to assign a grade at the end of an instructional period. This approach fosters a growth mindset, encourages student engagement, and allows for differentiation in teaching strategies, ultimately improving educational outcomes.