What is the significance of formative assessment in higher education?

Formative assessment plays a crucial role in higher education by providing ongoing feedback to students, which is vital for enhancing their learning experience. This type of assessment allows instructors to evaluate student understanding in real time, enabling them to identify areas where students may struggle. By receiving feedback throughout the learning process, students can gain insights into their strengths and weaknesses, adapt their study strategies, and take ownership of their learning. This continuous engagement fosters a deeper understanding of the material and encourages a growth mindset, ultimately contributing to improved academic performance and student success.

The focus of formative assessment is on the learning journey rather than the final result, which distinguishes it from assessments that solely determine grades or are used primarily for external purposes, like program accreditation. It is also not limited to factors such as attendance, as formative assessments are centered on content mastery and skill development rather than attendance metrics. This emphasis on ongoing, constructive feedback makes formative assessment an essential practice in effective teaching and learning environments in higher education.