Unit 4 explores the ethical dimensions of assessment and evaluation in language education, emphasizing the importance of fairness, transparency, and accountability in designing and implementing assessments. The unit examines common sources of bias in evaluation and offers strategies to promote equity and inclusivity. It also addresses ethical grading practices, the differences between formative and summative assessments, and how cultural and contextual factors influence assessment decisions. Through this unit, future educators will develop a critical understanding of how to conduct ethical assessments that support student learning and respect diverse learner needs.
5. Formative vs. Summative Assessment
Formative assessment is
ongoing and supports student learning (e.g., quizzes, feedback, drafts), while
summative assessment evaluates learning at the end of instruction (e.g., final
exams). Ethically, formative assessment empowers learners by identifying areas
for growth without penalizing them. Summative assessment must be designed to
genuinely measure what students have been taught.
