Glossary definition

Formative assessments are those conducted during the course rather than at the end of the course. Assessments at the end of the course of study are termed ‘summative assessments’, and assess understanding upon completion of the learning experience. In contrast, formative assessments are conducted during the learning process and enable both the student and the course coordinator to gauge how successfully knowledge is being acquired.
Formative assessments allow course coordinators to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback, as well as to make adjustments to the course to maximise learning.
Formative assessments allow students to gauge how well they are learning and indicate areas that the student may be required to make more effort.