What type of educational assessment is most likely to yield insights into student strengths and weaknesses?

Performance assessment is a type of educational assessment that focuses on a student’s ability to demonstrate knowledge and skills through practical application. This method provides insights into student strengths and weaknesses by allowing them to complete tasks that reflect real-world scenarios or challenges related to their learning objectives.

Unlike standardized tests, which can primarily measure students' recall of information or their ability to take tests, performance assessments enable educators to evaluate critical thinking, problem-solving, and application of knowledge in dynamic contexts. By assessing students on how they approach tasks and apply what they have learned, teachers can identify specific areas where a student excels or struggles.

Additionally, while behavioral data analysis and portfolio assessment can also provide valuable information on a student's performance and learning process, performance assessments are particularly effective because they directly engage students in tasks that illustrate their competencies, offering a more holistic view of their abilities. This active demonstration of skills facilitates a deeper understanding of individual strengths and weaknesses compared to more traditional assessment formats.