What is the purpose of summative assessment in kinesiology?

Summative assessment serves the primary role of evaluating performance at the end of an instructional unit. In the context of kinesiology, this type of assessment is designed to measure the extent to which students have acquired knowledge, skills, and competencies after a specific period of instruction. It provides a definitive evaluation of learning outcomes, often through tools such as finals, projects, or practical demonstrations.

This assessment is crucial for determining whether educational goals and objectives were met during the course or program and is used to gauge the overall effectiveness of the instructional methods implemented. Effective summative assessments can guide future curriculum improvements by highlighting areas of strength and those needing enhancement. This contrasts with other types of assessment, which may focus on ongoing feedback and improvement rather than measuring the cumulative understanding acquired at specific milestones.