Which type of feedback is crucial for formative assessment?

Immediate and constructive feedback is vital for formative assessment because it allows educators to give students timely insights into their understanding and performance. This type of feedback helps learners identify their strengths and areas for improvement while they are still in the process of learning. By receiving timely communication about their work, students can adjust their strategies, deepen their understanding, and enhance their skills.

Formative assessment focuses on the ongoing process of student learning, aiming to provide a supportive environment that encourages growth and development over time. Immediate and constructive feedback plays a key role in this process, as it fosters a cycle of reflection and refinement. This is different from summative evaluations, peer reviews, or end-of-year assessments, which primarily focus on assessing what students have learned after instruction or provide a one-time evaluation rather than facilitating ongoing improvement.