Formative and Summative Evaluation
The distinction between forms of evaluation that are aimed prospectively and retrospectively
Evaluation may serve two, complementary functions. In one context, the aim is prospective, or formative -- to improve, to understand strengths in order to amplify them, or to isolate weaknesses to mend. The other context is retrospective, or summative -- to assess concrete achievement, perhaps as part of a process of acknowledgement or giving awards. Here are some ways to think about the distinction further:
| Formative | Summative |
|---|---|
| Primarily prospective | Primarily retrospective |
| Analyze strengths and weaknesses towards improving | Document achievement |
| Develop habits | Document habits |
| Shape direction of professional development | Show results of such forays |
| Opportunity to reflect on meaning of past achievements? | Evidence of regular formative evaluation? |
| Feedback | Evidence |
Ideally, the two modes are complementary. Also, as noted in the table above, the process of formative evaluation may be an important component in summative evaluation (see more on Professional Development).