Formative assessment. A critical component in the teaching-learning process

This introductory paper to the volume contrasts formative assessment with summative assessment and describes the importance of formative assessment to classroom instruction. In particular, it argues that a task is formative to the extent that data from the task are used to enhance and inform further instruction rather than simply to provide an evaluation of a student or of instruction. The use of design research as a mechanism to develop sound classroom assessment is outlined because a design science framework provides a means to tie together varied exemplars of innovations in assessment. A cycle of task implementation and revision can lead to improved assessment practices.