In Physical Education (PE), assessments are crucial for evaluating student learning, performance, and development in various physical skills and fitness levels. Educational assessments in PE can generally be categorized into two broad categories: formative assessment and summative assessment.
1. Formative Assessment
Definition and Purpose: Formative assessments are ongoing evaluations that take place during the learning process. Their primary purpose is to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback that can be used by instructors to improve their teaching and by students to enhance their learning. These assessments are typically informal and may include observations, discussions, and quizzes.
Characteristics:
- Continuous: Formative assessments occur regularly throughout the instructional period.
- Feedback-oriented: They are designed to provide constructive feedback to students.
- Low stakes: They usually do not carry significant weight concerning students’ final grades.
- Adaptability: Results can be used to adapt teaching methods and strategies immediately based on student needs.
Examples in PE:
- Peer assessments during team activities or skills practice.
- Teacher observations of student participation and technique during drills.
- Quizzes on sports rules or team strategies that can guide further instruction.
References:
- Black, P., & Wiliam, D. (1998). Assessment and Classroom Learning. Assessment in Education: Principles, Policies, and Practices, 5(1), 7-74.
- McManus, M. (2009). Teaching and Assessing Physical Education. Physical Education Matters.
2. Summative Assessment
Definition and Purpose: Summative assessments are evaluations that occur at the end of an instructional unit or period. Their primary purpose is to measure student learning, skill acquisition, and academic achievement against predefined benchmarks or standards. These assessments are typically formal and may contribute significantly to the final grade.
Characteristics:
- End of instruction: Summative assessments are conducted after a learning period.
- High stakes: They often count towards a student’s final grade or course evaluation.
- Standardized: Often use standardized criteria to ensure fairness and comparability.
- Benchmarking: Aid educators in determining if students have met learning objectives and standards.
Examples in PE:
- Skill assessments (e.g. demonstrating a specific skill in a sport).
- Fitness tests measuring endurance, strength, or flexibility.
- Written exams covering knowledge of rules, strategies, and health-related concepts.
References:
- Stiggins, R. (2005). Student-Involved Assessment FOR Learning. Pearson Education.
- Lox, C. L., Ginis, K. A. M., & Martin, G. P. (2016). Fitness and Wellness: A Comprehensive Approach to Physical Activity and Health.
Conclusion
Both formative and summative assessments are essential in Physical Education. Formative assessments support ongoing development and improvement, while summative assessments provide a comprehensive evaluation of what students have learned over a period. Understanding these assessment types helps educators design effective PE programs that cater to the diverse needs of students while fostering a lifelong appreciation for physical activity and health.