What is the role of formative assessment in the professional knowledge section of the WEST-E?

Formative assessment plays a crucial role in the professional knowledge section of the WEST-E by helping educators measure student learning progress. This type of assessment is integral to the teaching and learning process, as it provides ongoing feedback to both teachers and students that can inform instruction, identify areas where students may struggle, and guide the development of effective teaching strategies.

By observing student responses and understanding their learning needs through formative assessments, teachers can adjust their instruction in real-time to better support their students. This continual cycle of assessment and adjustment fosters an environment where learning can be tailored to meet the individual needs of students, ultimately leading to improved educational outcomes.

The focus on measuring student learning progress emphasizes the importance of a teacher's ability to adapt and respond to their students' needs, establishing a responsive educational practice grounded in the observation and analysis of student performance.