Formal Assessments vs. Informal Assessments

Attribute	Formal Assessments	Informal Assessments
Structure	Highly structured with predetermined criteria	Less structured with flexible criteria
Purpose	Used for grading and evaluation	Used for feedback and improvement
Timing	Usually scheduled and planned in advance	Can be spontaneous and ongoing
Scoring	Often scored using rubrics or standardized tests	Scoring may be subjective or qualitative
Feedback	Feedback is formal and often written	Feedback is informal and immediate

Definition

Formal assessments are standardized tests that have been carefully designed to measure specific learning outcomes. These assessments are typically administered under controlled conditions and have specific instructions that must be followed. Examples of formal assessments include standardized tests, quizzes, and exams. On the other hand, informal assessments are more flexible and are often used by teachers on a day-to-day basis to gauge student understanding. These assessments can take many forms, such as observations, discussions, and student self-assessments.

Purpose

The purpose of formal assessments is to provide a standardized measure of student learning that can be compared across different students, schools, and districts. These assessments are often used to make important decisions, such as determining student placement, identifying areas of weakness, and evaluating the effectiveness of instructional programs. Informal assessments, on the other hand, are used to gather information about student progress in a more casual and ongoing manner. These assessments are often used to inform instruction, provide feedback to students, and guide the learning process.

Structure

Formal assessments are typically structured in a way that ensures consistency and reliability. These assessments often have clear guidelines for administration, scoring, and interpretation. They are also usually timed and have specific formats, such as multiple-choice questions or essay prompts. Informal assessments, on the other hand, are less structured and more open-ended. These assessments can take many different forms and can be adapted to fit the needs of individual students or situations. They are often more flexible and can be used in a variety of ways to gather information about student learning.

Scoring

Formal assessments are often scored using predetermined criteria that have been established before the assessment is administered. These criteria are typically based on the learning outcomes that the assessment is designed to measure. Scores on formal assessments are often used to compare students to each other or to a set standard. Informal assessments, on the other hand, are often scored in a more subjective manner. These assessments may involve observations, discussions, or student work samples that are evaluated based on the teacher's judgment. Scores on informal assessments are often used to provide feedback to students and guide instruction.

Feedback

Formal assessments often provide feedback to students in the form of a score or grade. This feedback is typically given after the assessment has been completed and is used to evaluate student performance. Informal assessments, on the other hand, provide more immediate and ongoing feedback to students. These assessments can be used to inform instruction in real-time and provide students with opportunities to reflect on their learning. Informal assessments are often used to guide the learning process and help students improve their understanding.

Validity and Reliability

Formal assessments are often designed to be valid and reliable measures of student learning. These assessments are carefully constructed to ensure that they accurately measure the intended learning outcomes. They are also often standardized and have been tested for reliability. Informal assessments, on the other hand, may be less valid and reliable. These assessments are often more subjective and may be influenced by factors such as teacher bias or student behavior. While informal assessments can provide valuable information about student learning, they may not always be as consistent or accurate as formal assessments.

Conclusion

In conclusion, formal assessments and informal assessments each have their own unique attributes and serve different purposes in the educational setting. Formal assessments are standardized tests that provide a measure of student learning that can be compared across different students and schools. These assessments are structured, scored using predetermined criteria, and provide feedback in the form of a score or grade. Informal assessments, on the other hand, are more flexible and are often used by teachers on a day-to-day basis to gather information about student progress. These assessments are less structured, scored in a more subjective manner, and provide more immediate and ongoing feedback to students. Both types of assessments have their own strengths and weaknesses, and can be used in conjunction to provide a comprehensive picture of student learning.