Formative evaluation measures learner performance in an effort to answer what question?

Formative evaluation is primarily focused on monitoring student learning during the instructional process. Its main purpose is to assess whether learners are making progress towards achieving the learning objectives. This type of evaluation often occurs through ongoing assessments, feedback, and self-reflections that provide insights to both the instructor and the learner about the effectiveness of the teaching methods and the learner's understanding of the material.

By identifying the question of whether the student is making progress, formative evaluation allows for timely adjustments to instruction and helps students understand their own learning needs. This iterative process encourages a growth mindset, promotes continuous learning, and ultimately enhances the educational experience. Thus, emphasizing progress rather than final outcomes or comparisons reinforces a developmental approach to education.