Basic Concepts in Assessment

Study Notes

Test is a tool to gather information about a student's knowledge, skills, and abilities.
Testing is a systematic process to observe a learner's characteristics and qualities.
Measurement quantifies or qualifies performance against criteria or correct answers.
Assessment gathers, organizes, and presents data about student learning for judgment.
Evaluation uses assessment data to make judgments about the quality of learning.

Test can be formal or informal, with standardized tests made by specialists and teacher-made tests created by classroom teachers.
Testing involves different techniques like paper-and-pencil tests, oral questioning, performance tests, and product assessments.
Measurement involves assigning numerical descriptions or symbols, often using objective or subjective scoring.
Assessment helps determine the extent of learning, gaps in understanding, and progress.

Objective measurement uses a single correct answer, like multiple-choice, true/false questions.
Subjective measurement allows for multiple answers and may be influenced by the rater's opinion, like essays, drawings, or role plays.

Educational measurement determines the level of learning compared to a standard or other learners.
Formative assessment guides everyday teaching activities and is considered the most important type of assessment.
Summative assessment occurs after instruction and evaluates overall learning achievement.