Assessment Methods Used in Schools and Their Relationship to Improving Educational Performance

This research paper aims to analyze the relationship between the assessment methods adopted in schools and the improvement of students' overall educational performance. The study adopts a descriptive-analytical methodology to review and evaluate the main assessment patterns: traditional summative assessment, formative assessment (assessment for learning), and alternative assessment (such as portfolios and projects). The study demonstrates that effective formative assessment, centered on providing constructive and continuous feedback and involving students in the assessment process, is among the most influential factors in enhancing learning and improving cognitive and skill-based outcomes. It also shows that an integrated approach combining different methods leads to more comprehensive and equitable assessment and reduces academic anxiety associated with traditional tests. The paper highlights the challenges facing the implementation of these methods in some contexts, such as the prevailing exam culture and large class sizes. It concludes by offering practical recommendations at the levels of educational policies, schools, and teachers, the most important of which are: developing supportive policies, training teachers, and creating a school environment that encourages learning rather than grades alone.