Assessment is different from evaluation although the two are closely related. When the information thus assembled is analyzed or judged and decisions are made about the quality or efficacy of what is observed, then evaluation has taken place. Simple monitoring and adjusting in a classroom is an example of assessment which is not consciously evaluative. Assessment may also be tied specifically to the classroom setting or to broader school-wide programs. Helping Children Construct Meaning.
Effective assessment is an integral part of instruction.
Assessment should be a collaborative, reflective process. Effective assessment should be multidimensional. Assessment should be developmentally and culturally appropriate. Effective assessment identifies students' strengths. Assessment must be based on what we know about how students learn.