What is a key feature of formative assessments?

Formative assessments are characterized by their ability to provide immediate feedback for improvement. This type of assessment is typically conducted throughout the learning process rather than at the end, enabling educators to gauge students' understanding and performance in real-time. The feedback obtained from formative assessments helps both teachers and students identify areas where more support or instruction is needed, allowing for adjustments to be made in teaching strategies or learning approaches as necessary.

The immediacy of the feedback is crucial, as it encourages a dialogue about learning and supports a growth mindset, which is essential for student development. Formative assessments are designed to be informative rather than punitive, focusing on student learning and progress rather than just the end results. This feedback mechanism fosters continuous improvement and helps students take ownership of their learning.