Which type of assessment is typically used to evaluate learning outcomes after instruction has taken place?

Summative assessment is utilized to evaluate learning outcomes after instruction has occurred, focusing on how well students have achieved the learning objectives. This type of assessment is often administered at the end of a course or instructional unit and typically measures the overall effectiveness of the education that has taken place.

The goal of summative assessment is to determine whether students have mastered the content, skills, and competencies expected from them at that stage in their education. Examples include final exams, standardized tests, and major projects or presentations that encapsulate the knowledge and skills acquired during the learning process.

In contrast, formative assessments are conducted during the learning process to monitor student progress and provide ongoing feedback for instructional adjustments, not for final evaluation. Diagnostic assessments occur before instruction begins to identify students' existing knowledge and skill levels. Placement assessments are designed to determine the appropriate level or course for students based on their abilities. Each of these types serves a different purpose within the educational framework, making summative assessment specifically suited for evaluating outcomes after the instruction has taken place.