What does "differentiated assessment" refer to?

Differentiated assessment refers to the practice of modifying assessment methods to meet the diverse learning styles and needs of individual students. This approach recognizes that students have different backgrounds, abilities, and ways of learning, which can impact their performance and understanding. By tailoring assessments, educators can create a more inclusive environment that allows all students to demonstrate their knowledge and skills effectively. This can involve using various forms of assessment, such as projects, presentations, or alternative formats, rather than relying solely on standardized tests.

The other options represent a standard assessment method that does not account for individual differences among students. Using a standard test for all students or applying the same assessment uniformly can lead to situations where some students may not have the opportunity to succeed due to differences in learning preferences or needs. Testing only high-achieving students further restricts the focus and overlooks the potential of all learners. Differentiated assessment, therefore, is essential for fostering equity in the educational assessment process.