The research-based ESU Comprehensive Classroom Assessment Model provides a framework for faculty to make informed decisions about assessing student progress throughout the learning cycle. Comprehensive assessment is defined as the gathering and synthesizing of information about student learning over an extended period of time using a variety of data gathering methods and tools. Its purpose is to improve student learning and instructional decision-making throughout the Learning Cycle.
Comprehensive assessment is a continual process occurring in the following ways:
- Diagnostically - prior to instruction to assess students' learning characteristics, existing knowledge, and past experiences related to course content
- Formatively - during instruction, to provide checkpoints for student and teacher
- Summatively - after instruction, to determine student mastery of course outcomes
Comprehensive assessment increases student motivation and achievement, provides a valid and reliable basis for student and faculty decision-making about quality performance, and provides a comprehensive picture of student learning for the evaluation and grading process.
