When you think of assessment, you often think of examinations with the aim of certifying or awarding diplomas. This is known as summative assessment In addition to summative testing, we also have formative testing. This involves stimulating the participant's development and growth by means of feedback. This blog discusses the various aspects that determine learning outcomes and the advantages of digital formative testing. What is formative assessment? Formative assessment is assessment carried out in advance or during the course to determine which parts the student has mastered and which parts they have not. The aim is to shape the learning process. In this way, what has been learned can ultimately be applied optimally in practice (transfer). Because formative tests are intended to assess the progress of the student, these tests are administered more frequently than summative tests. Only by testing regularly can you get a good picture of the candidate's development. Furthermore, formative assessments are not bound by fixed standards, which makes them enjoyable for many. This is a significant advantage for many trainers, teachers, and students. In addition, formative assessment can contribute to good learning performance. Which aspects determine learning performance? The training or education is relevant if it matches the level of the student. The student can immediately apply the knowledge gained in the workplace. During the training or course, the student feels increasingly competent and confident in applying what they have learned. Course participants rate the training as high quality and have confidence in the trainer's abilities. The organisation encourages the application of what has been learned in practice. 3. Feedback Through formative assessment, candidates are informed afterwards of the level they have achieved. Specific areas for improvement are also identified. Mastering certain skills gives you self-confidence. It also gives you direction for the future. You know which areas you still need to work on and where you need to focus your efforts. Digital assessment in particular can be relevant for providing feedback. After the assessment, candidates immediately hear which learning objectives they have mastered and which they have not. Why use digital formative assessment? Digital testing offers more opportunities for formative testing. A typical feature of digital testing is the diversity of test formats. Consider, for example, a test in which a student answers questions based on film and audio clips. This also allows you to assess attitudes and competencies, such as views on how best to communicate, sell something or lead. Digital assessment also facilitates testing. Think of the simple distribution of questions and the ability to provide feedback at the right time. The added value of formative assessment Formative assessment adds value to the first three aspects. Three specific applications of this are: baseline measurement, practice assignments, and feedback. We will briefly explain these three methods, partly with examples from digital assessment. Conclusion Formative assessment adds value by enhancing learning outcomes and transfer, motivating participants, and enabling the creation of even more customised courses and training programmes. Education, training and examination within the business community is, of course, a costly and time-consuming undertaking. It is important to structure these efforts in a targeted manner and to keep participants motivated. Especially when you combine formative assessment with summative assessment, it results in better exam results! Digital assessment systems can also be very useful for formative assessment. It makes assessment more feasible and relevant. When will you start using formative assessment? Follow us on LinkedIn and stay up to date with developments in digital testing.
