formativearviointia

Formativearviointi, known in English as formative assessment, is a pedagogical approach focused on ongoing assessment to improve student learning. Unlike summative assessment, which aims to evaluate learning at the end of a period, formative assessment is embedded within the learning process itself. Its primary purpose is to provide timely feedback to both students and teachers. For students, this feedback helps them understand their current strengths and weaknesses, identify areas for improvement, and adjust their learning strategies. For teachers, formative assessment offers insights into student understanding and the effectiveness of their teaching methods, allowing them to make necessary adjustments to instruction in real-time.

The process typically involves a variety of low-stakes activities that are not necessarily graded. Examples include questioning, observation, classroom discussions, exit tickets, and peer or self-assessment. The data gathered from these activities informs instructional decisions. Teachers can use this information to re-teach concepts, provide differentiated support, or accelerate learning for students who have mastered the material. Formative assessment emphasizes a collaborative relationship between teacher and student, fostering a growth mindset where learning is viewed as a continuous journey rather than a destination. It is a dynamic and iterative process designed to support and enhance the learning experience throughout its duration.