AN ANALYSIS OF HISTORICAL CHANGES IN STUDENT ASSESSMENT: FROM EXAMS TO FORMATIVE ASSESSMENT

The methods of student assessment have changed significantly from more traditional summative assessments, like exams, to increasingly diverse and dynamic forms of formative assessment. Such changes reflect broader educational trends promoting more effective student learning, deeper feedback, and greater inclusivity for all learning styles. This article outlines the historical evolution of student assessment, starting from early forms of examinations aimed at measuring student performance, to modern formative approaches that center on continuous assessment, personalized learning, and sustained feedback. It explores both the benefits and challenges of summative and formative approaches to assessment and how each contributes to student learning outcomes. Through this, the article highlights that it is high time assessment practices changed to suit the needs of modern learners and to improve the quality of education.