Assessment and Evaluation

Key Messages

1. Assessment is the process of gathering data while evaluation is the process of making a judgement based on the data.

2. Student assessment techniques need to complement instructional methods and learning objectives.

3. Assessment and evaluation occur in each of Levels A, B, and C of the decision-making process.

Definitions

Assessment and evaluation are key components of teaching and learning. Assessment and evaluation serve to enhance student learning and to improve teacher instruction. Assessment and evaluation are continuous, ongoing processes.

Assessment refers to collecting information on the progress of students’ learning using a variety of procedures (e.g., checklists, inventories, self-assessments, performance stations, quizzes, assignments). Evaluation refers to making judgements on the basis of the information collected. Reporting refers to conveying the results.