What defines traditional assessment?

Traditional assessment is characterized by evaluating students in ways that often do not directly relate to real-world situations or applications. This type of assessment commonly involves methods such as standardized testing, quizzes, and exams that focus on a student's ability to recall information, solve problems with predetermined methods, and demonstrate knowledge through objective criteria.

The focus in traditional assessments is typically on paper-and-pencil tests that measure individual student performance against a defined set of standards, which may not reflect how those skills will be utilized in practical circumstances. As such, traditional assessments are structured to evaluate students in a controlled environment, providing a basis for comparison across a group rather than fostering application of knowledge in real-world contexts. This makes it distinct from alternatives like project-based learning or performance assessments that emphasize real-world applications and student engagement with content outside the classroom.