Which assessment method best supports learning progress over time?

Cumulative assessments effectively support learning progress over time because they are designed to evaluate what students have learned throughout a specific period, typically encompassing multiple units or topics. This method encourages students to review and integrate their knowledge over time rather than relying on isolated instances of learning. By assessing students at regular intervals on a body of content, educators can identify areas of strength and weakness, enabling targeted instruction that meets learners' needs. Furthermore, the cumulative approach fosters retention and helps students connect concepts, which are crucial for long-term understanding.

In contrast, one-time testing provides a snapshot of a student’s knowledge at a single moment, which may not reflect their overall learning journey. Standardized assessments often focus on measuring student performance against predetermined standards within a limited timeframe, providing less insight into individual progress over extended periods. End-of-term exams, while comprehensive, assess knowledge only at the end of the learning process without the ongoing evaluation that cumulative assessments provide.