What type of assessment is used to compare student learning against a standard?

The type of assessment that is utilized to compare student learning against a standard is summative assessment. This form of assessment is generally conducted at the end of an instructional period to evaluate whether students have achieved the learning objectives and standards set for that period. By summarizing what students have learned, the results of summative assessments provide a clear picture of student performance relative to predetermined goals and benchmarks.

Summative assessments often take the form of final exams, standardized tests, or end-of-term projects. They are crucial for measuring the cumulative knowledge and skills that students have developed over a course or unit, enabling educators and stakeholders to determine effectiveness and make decisions regarding instructional strategies, curriculum design, and student readiness for advancement.