What type of assessment evaluates the degree of learning at the conclusion of a course?

The assessment that evaluates the degree of learning at the conclusion of a course is known as summative assessment. This type of assessment is designed to measure what students have learned after a specific instructional period, often at the end of a unit, semester, or course. Summative assessments typically include final exams, end-of-course projects, or standardized tests that provide comprehensive data on student understanding and the effectiveness of the educational program.

By focusing on documenting what students have achieved, summative assessments help educators determine whether learning objectives have been met and inform decisions about curriculum effectiveness and necessary improvements. This contrasts with formative assessments, which are conducted during the learning process to provide ongoing feedback, and are primarily aimed at improving student learning and instruction while learning is still taking place. Instead of evaluating the final output of the learning process, formative assessments adjust teaching strategies based on student performance.