What is the difference between "assessment" and "evaluation"?

The terms "assessment" and "evaluation" are often used interchangeably, but they have distinct meanings and purposes. Here's a breakdown of the differences:

Assessment

• Definition: Assessment is the process of gathering information to understand the current status or progress of an individual, program, or project. It involves collecting data on knowledge, skills, attitudes, and performance12.
• Purpose: The primary goal of assessment is to identify strengths and weaknesses, provide feedback, and guide improvements. It is often formative, meaning it is used continuously throughout a process to monitor progress and adjust strategies12.
• Tools: Common assessment tools include tests, quizzes, projects, observations, and informal conversations2.
• Focus: Assessment focuses on collecting detailed data to inform future actions and improve outcomes2.

Evaluation

• Definition: Evaluation is the process of making judgments about the value, effectiveness, or success of something based on the data collected during assessment. It involves analyzing information to determine how well something meets predetermined criteria or standards12.
• Purpose: The main purpose of evaluation is to provide comprehensive feedback that can inform decisions and ensure accountability. It often involves summative judgments, typically conducted at the end of a program or project to assess overall outcomes12.
• Tools: Evaluation uses assessment data along with other sources like surveys and performance metrics to make informed judgments2.
• Focus: Evaluation focuses on interpreting data to make conclusive judgments about effectiveness and success2.

In summary, assessment is about gathering information to understand and improve, while evaluation is about using that information to make judgments about effectiveness and success based on established criteria. Both processes are crucial for learning and improvement in various fields, including education and performance management12.