What is the primary difference between assessment for learning and assessment of learning?

The distinction between assessment for learning and assessment of learning revolves around their purposes and methodologies, and the first option accurately identifies this difference. Assessment for learning is formative, meaning it is intended to support student learning and provide ongoing feedback that can be used to improve teaching and learning processes. This type of assessment can occur at various points throughout a course or program, allowing educators to adjust instruction in response to student needs.

On the other hand, assessment of learning is summative, designed to evaluate student learning, typically at the end of an instructional period. This type of assessment measures what students have learned and often results in a final grade or certification. Its primary goal is to gauge the effectiveness of the educational process rather than to improve it in real-time.

Understanding this primary difference is crucial for educators, as it informs their approach to assessment and helps ensure that they are effectively supporting their students' learning journeys. The other options do not accurately capture the foundational distinction between these two types of assessment. For instance, assessment for learning is not inherently more challenging; it focuses on guiding learning rather than gauging it. Additionally, qualitative data may be used in both types of assessments, and summative assessments are not limited to the end of the year, as they can occur at