Why is formative evaluation important in the educational process?

Formative evaluation is crucial in the educational process because it serves as an ongoing assessment that informs instructors about the effectiveness of their course delivery and student comprehension throughout the learning experience. This type of evaluation allows educators to identify areas where students may be struggling, enabling them to adjust their teaching strategies or provide additional support as needed. Unlike summative evaluations, which assess student learning at the end of an instructional period, formative evaluations help facilitate continuous improvement in both teaching and learning.

Furthermore, the feedback gained from formative evaluations is valuable in shaping the course content and instructional methods, ensuring they meet the learners' needs. This approach increases student engagement and enhances the overall learning outcomes, making it an integral part of the educational process.