Summative Assessments

Summative assessments are used to evaluate student learning. They are typically given in the form of an assignment, quiz, or exam. They are:

  • Done at the end of an instructional unit
  • Typically used to compare student work against a standard or benchmark
  • Provide little opportunity for students to apply any feedback

Modifications

Summative assessments are typically high-stakes opportunities, meaning they have a high point value. Some examples include:

  • Midterm exam
  • Research paper
  • Final Project
  • Final Exam

When creating assignments, be sure to:

  • Align the course goals with the assignment
  • Provide necessary resources and instructions for successfully completing the assignment
  • Prompt students to stretch a little beyond their comfort zone by adding some desireable difficulty

Teaching Format Modifications

Summative assignments may look slightly different depending on the format in which you deliver your course. Below are some suggestions as to how those might look:

Online

Consider quiz and exam security and use a virtual proctoring solution, if prudent. Quizzes and exams may also be proctored by an approved proctor. See the Academic Testing Center website for details. 

Connect

Quizzes and exams can be proctored at the Regional Campuses or USU centers around the state. Be sure to add a password to the quiz or exam and enter pertinent details about the assessment in the Materials and Testing Services (MATs) website.