Which method of assessment involves ongoing evaluation of a student's performance?

Formative assessment is a method that involves ongoing evaluation of a student’s performance throughout the learning process. This type of assessment is designed to monitor student learning and provide continuous feedback that can be used to improve teaching methods and student understanding. By incorporating checks for understanding during lessons, such as quizzes, class discussions, or exit tickets, teachers can gauge how well students are grasping the material and adjust their instruction accordingly.

The focus of formative assessment is to support student learning in real-time rather than merely evaluating it at the end of a unit or course. This continuous nature allows for adjustments and interventions that can enhance learning outcomes.

In contrast, summative assessment evaluates student learning at the end of an instructional period and is typically used to assign grades. Diagnostic assessment identifies students' strengths and weaknesses before instruction starts, and norm-referenced assessment compares a student's performance to that of a peer group, rather than focusing on ongoing individual progress.