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Formative Assessment Definition Varies Among Educators

One modern educational innovation is a method called “formative assessment,” but an array of definitions and applications complicate the ability of experts to measure the effectiveness of this new technique.

by Eleanor Dearman

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Credit: Gabriel Cristóver Pérez

One modern educational innovation is a method called “formative assessment,” but an array of definitions and applications complicate experts' ability to measure the effectiveness of this new technique. While some teachers understand formative assessments to be a continuous feedback loop between themselves and students, others see it as a chance to give planned, evaluative quizzes to test comprehension. (Ed Week)

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Eleanor Dearman’s staff photo