​Which of the following is not a characteristic of ‘Assessment for Learning’?​

Correct option is C

The correct answer is (c) It is judgemental.
‘Assessment for Learning’ (AfL) is a formative assessment process aimed at supporting student learning during the instructional process rather than simply judging it. It focuses on continuous feedback, identifying strengths and areas for improvement, encouraging students to view errors as part of learning, and involving them actively through self and peer assessment. Being judgmental—assigning final grades or making conclusive evaluations—is characteristic of Assessment of Learning (summative assessment), not Assessment for Learning. Thus, being judgmental contradicts the purpose of formative, growth-oriented assessments.

Information Booster

1. Focus on Improvement: AfL is intended to guide and enhance students' learning journeys through timely feedback.
2. Non-Judgmental Nature: It avoids passing final judgment and instead focuses on ongoing development.
3. Error Acceptance: Errors are viewed positively as opportunities for learning and corrective feedback.
4. Student Involvement: Peer and self-assessment are integral to helping learners reflect on and own their learning processes.
5. Formative Purpose: The goal is to inform both teaching and learning, adjusting instruction to meet students' needs.

Additional Information

• (a) It helps identify areas of strength and learning needs of students:
  This is true for AfL, where diagnostic feedback helps students understand what they have mastered and what needs more work.
• (b) It expects students make errors:
  This is true, as recognizing and analyzing mistakes is an important part of the learning and teaching strategy in AfL.
• (d) It permits peer assessment and self-assessment:
  This is true, since AfL encourages learners to assess their own and others' work, promoting reflection and responsibility for learning.