What does summative assessment primarily aim to determine?

Summative assessment primarily aims to evaluate the degree of student mastery or learning at the conclusion of an instructional period. This type of assessment is used to measure how much students have learned relative to the educational objectives set for a course or program. It often takes the form of exams, projects, or standardized tests and serves to provide a comprehensive overview of student achievement.

This assessment type is typically conducted after a unit or course is completed and focuses on the outcomes of student learning rather than the process of instruction itself. By determining the level of mastery, educators can make informed decisions about the effectiveness of their teaching and the readiness of students to advance to the next level of learning.

Options that reference teaching strategies, instructional duration, or student attendance do not align with the primary purpose of summative assessments, which is focused specifically on measuring educational outcomes and learning achievements. Such assessments help in identifying strengths and weaknesses in student performance, leading to potential improvements in curriculum and instructional practices.