What is a performance-based assessment?

A performance-based assessment is designed to evaluate learners through practical tasks that demonstrate their abilities and application of skills in real-world scenarios. Unlike traditional assessments that may focus on rote memorization or theoretical knowledge, performance-based assessments require students to actively engage in specific activities that resemble what they would encounter in actual work or problem-solving situations. This allows educators to assess not only the knowledge of the subject matter but also how effectively students can apply that knowledge in practice.

For example, in a performance-based assessment within a science course, students might be asked to conduct an experiment and analyze the results, showcasing their understanding of scientific methods and concepts. This type of evaluation emphasizes critical thinking, creativity, and the ability to perform tasks rather than merely recalling information from textbooks. Thus, performance-based assessments provide a more comprehensive view of a learner's capabilities.