Which assessment type is typically used to evaluate cumulative knowledge at the end of a course?

The assessment type that is typically used to evaluate cumulative knowledge at the end of a course is summative assessment. This type of assessment is designed to measure what students have learned over the duration of the course and is often used to determine if they have met the learning objectives. Summative assessments can take various forms, including final exams, projects, or presentations, all aimed at assessing the overall mastery of the subject matter.

Unlike formative assessments, which are conducted during the learning process to monitor student comprehension and provide ongoing feedback, summative assessments occur after instruction has concluded. This allows educators to gauge the effectiveness of their teaching and the extent to which students have engaged with and understood the material over time.

Diagnostic assessments focus on identifying students' existing knowledge and skills before instruction begins, helping educators tailor their teaching strategies to meet students' needs. Performance assessments evaluate students' ability to apply their knowledge and skills in practical situations, but these may not necessarily measure cumulative knowledge in the way summative assessments do. Thus, the distinguishing aspect of summative assessment lies in its role as a comprehensive evaluation tool at the conclusion of a learning period.