Standardized achievement tests are categorized based on their purpose, with distinctions including formal, informal, diagnostic, formative, and summative types.
Understanding the Types of Achievement Tests
Achievement tests are used to measure a person's knowledge or skill in a specific area. Here's a breakdown of their different classifications based on purpose:
Formal Achievement Tests
- Definition: These tests are typically standardized, meaning they are administered and scored in a consistent manner across different test takers. They often have established norms for comparison.
- Purpose: Formal tests are designed to provide a comprehensive and reliable assessment of student achievement, frequently used for accountability purposes.
- Examples: Include standardized tests like the SAT or ACT.
Informal Achievement Tests
- Definition: These tests are less structured and are usually created by teachers for classroom use.
- Purpose: They are designed to gauge student understanding on a day-to-day basis, and often provide a rapid snapshot of what has been learned.
- Examples: Include quizzes, classroom tests, or teacher-made assessments.
Diagnostic Achievement Tests
- Definition: These tests are designed to identify specific strengths and weaknesses of a student.
- Purpose: Diagnostic tests are used to pinpoint areas where students need extra support or advanced instruction.
- Examples: include tests designed to highlight a students’ learning challenges in specific areas like reading or math.
Formative Achievement Tests
- Definition: These are tests or assessments that are ongoing and are used to check for understanding.
- Purpose: Formative tests are used during the learning process to monitor students' progress and help teachers adjust their teaching methods.
- Examples: Include quizzes, classwork checks, and discussions.
Summative Achievement Tests
- Definition: These tests are administered at the end of a specific period of learning.
- Purpose: Summative tests are used to evaluate overall student achievement at the conclusion of a unit, course, or grade level.
- Examples: Include final exams, state-mandated achievement tests, and end-of-year tests.
| Test Type | Purpose | Timing | Examples |
|---|---|---|---|
| Formal | Standardized measurement of achievement | At specific intervals, often for accountability | SAT, ACT, national standardized tests |
| Informal | Day-to-day assessment of understanding | Frequently, during learning process | Classroom quizzes, teacher-made tests |
| Diagnostic | Identification of specific strengths and weaknesses | As needed, especially for students struggling | Tests focusing on specific skills, such as reading or math subskills |
| Formative | Monitoring progress and adjusting instruction | Throughout learning process | Class discussions, short quizzes, in-class activities |
| Summative | Evaluation of overall learning after a period of time | At the end of learning period | Final exams, end-of-year assessments, comprehensive unit tests |
By understanding these classifications, educators can more effectively use achievement tests to improve instruction and student learning outcomes.
