This module strengthened my understanding that assessment in a competency-based classroom must be intentional, varied, and aligned with purpose. I learned that formative and summative assessments serve different but equally important roles. Formative assessment supports learning as it is happening—it allows instructors to identify gaps, provide feedback, and adjust instruction in real time. Summative assessment, on the other hand, evaluates a student’s level of performance at a specific point and confirms whether competency has been achieved.
One major takeaway for me is that no single assessment tool can fully determine student competence. In a technical or laboratory environment especially, relying solely on written exams would not accurately measure a student’s ability to perform hands-on skills.
The advantage of using multiple assessments throughout a course is that it provides a more complete and fair evaluation of student learning across all domains: knowledge, skills, and professional behaviors. It also improves reliability and validity because competency is measured in different ways and contexts. Additionally, varied assessments support different learning styles and allow more students the opportunity to demonstrate what they know and can do.
Overall, this module reinforced that effective assessment is not just about grading—it is about supporting learning, ensuring competency, and preparing students for real-world performance.
