What is referred to as an "embedded assessment"?

An embedded assessment is characterized by its integration within the instructional process. This means that it occurs simultaneously with teaching and learning activities, allowing educators to gather evidence of student understanding and skills as they are being developed. By weaving assessment into the everyday learning experience, instructors can identify areas where students might struggle and adjust their teaching methods accordingly in real time. This approach not only helps in measuring student progress but also enhances learning by providing immediate feedback, fostering a more interactive and responsive educational environment.

In contrast, assessments conducted after the instructional process typically evaluate knowledge retention and understanding but do not provide the same opportunities for real-time intervention. Standardized tests administered separately tend to focus on broader metrics and may not reflect the nuances of individual learning experiences. Informal quizzes at the end of a course might assess overall understanding but lack the integration that characterizes embedded assessments. Thus, the embedded nature emphasizes ongoing evaluation and learning, making it a powerful tool in the instructional process.