In terms of assessment, what does the term 'summative assessment' mean?

Summative assessment refers to evaluations that are conducted after an instructional period to measure the extent of student learning and understanding of the material covered. This form of assessment typically occurs at the end of a unit, course, or academic year and is often used to assign grades or determine whether learning objectives have been met.

The primary goal of summative assessments is to provide a comprehensive overview of student achievements and skills acquired over the instructional period. Examples include final exams, end-of-term projects, standardized tests, or final presentations that serve to consolidate the learning that has taken place.

By focusing on outcomes rather than processes, summative assessments contribute to the overall evaluation of educational effectiveness and help in making decisions about curriculum adjustments, teaching strategies, and student progress.