sumativno

Sumativno is the term used in several Slavic languages, including Slovenian, to describe summative assessment in education. It refers to the evaluation that takes place at the end of a learning period to determine what students have learned and are able to do. Results are typically expressed as a grade, mark, or credential. The word derives from the Latin summativus, meaning to sum up or total.

In contrast to formative assessment, which aims to guide instruction during learning, sumativno ocenjevanje evaluates outcomes after instruction has occurred. It is often high-stakes, cumulative, and standardized, demanding evidence of achievement across a broad range of objectives. Scoring is usually based on predetermined criteria or rubrics to support fairness and comparability.

Common forms include final exams, end-of-term tests, state or national assessments, capstone projects, and final portfolios that are assessed summatively. While these assessments can certify competence or progress, they may not capture every aspect of learning and can be influenced by test conditions.

Effective use of sumativno requires alignment with learning objectives, clear criteria, and consistent moderation to ensure reliability and validity. It can be complemented by formative assessment to provide feedback, reduce test anxiety, and support ongoing improvement. Critics argue that an overemphasis on summative measures can encourage teaching to the test.

Across education systems, sumativno is a common mechanism for reporting achievement and determining advancement or certification. Its implementation varies by country and institution, but the underlying goal is to provide a concise judgment of what learners have achieved at a defined point.