How does summative assessment primarily differ from formative assessment?

The primary distinction of summative assessment lies in its focus on evaluating student learning at the conclusion of an instructional unit. This type of assessment is designed to measure the extent to which students have achieved the learning objectives and outcomes after comprehensive engagement with the material. By administering summative assessments at the end of a period of instruction, educators can determine the effectiveness of their teaching and the overall understanding of the concepts by students.

These assessments are typically used for grading purposes and for making decisions about student progression, curriculum effectiveness, and instructional strategies. They often come in the form of final exams, end-of-term projects, or standardized tests, contrasting with formative assessments, which are conducted during the instructional process to provide ongoing feedback and enhance student learning. Thus, the function and timing of summative assessments distinctly characterize their role in the educational assessment framework.