Which of the following describes 'summative assessment'?

Summative assessment is defined as an evaluation that occurs at the conclusion of an instructional period, aimed at measuring and evaluating the overall learning and mastery of the material by students. This type of assessment is typically used to ascertain whether the educational objectives have been met and to gauge the effectiveness of the instructional methods employed.

In practice, summative assessments can take various forms, such as final exams, end-of-term projects, or standardized tests. Their primary focus is on the outcomes rather than the process of learning itself, making them distinct from other types of assessments that might be used during the learning process.

Understanding this framework is crucial for educators as it helps them make informed decisions about curriculum effectiveness and student achievement. The other descriptions provided in the options do not accurately capture this definition or the primary purpose of summative assessments.