Which method of assessment focuses on measuring students' performance against a set standard?

The focus of summative assessment is to measure students' performance against a predetermined set of standards or benchmarks at the end of an instructional period. This type of assessment typically occurs after a unit, term, or course and evaluates how well students have achieved the learning objectives. Summative assessments can take the form of exams, standardized tests, or final projects, providing data that helps educators determine whether students have met course goals and learning outcomes.

In contrast, formative assessment is continuous and occurs during the learning process, aiming to improve student learning through feedback. Diagnostic assessment is used to identify students' strengths and weaknesses before and during the learning process, while dynamic assessment focuses on the potential for future learning and development through interactive processes. Each of these types serves a different purpose, but summative assessment is specifically centered around measuring what students have learned in relation to set standards.