What is the purpose of formative assessment tools?

The primary purpose of formative assessment tools is to provide feedback during instruction. These tools are designed to inform both teachers and students about the learning process as it unfolds, allowing for adjustments and improvements in real-time. By regularly assessing student understanding and performance, teachers can modify their instructional strategies to better meet the needs of their students. This ongoing feedback loop promotes an interactive learning environment where students feel supported and can improve their skills progressively.

While evaluating student learning at the end of a course is an important aspect of summative assessments, it does not align with the purpose of formative assessments. Identifying potential learning difficulties and aligning teaching with educational standards may also be elements of a broader assessment strategy, but the central aim of formative assessments is to enhance and inform the instructional process through timely feedback.