Why is establishing a clear assessment purpose important in education?

Establishing a clear assessment purpose is essential in education as it directly aligns with specific learning goals. When educators understand the intent behind assessments, they can design tools and methods that accurately measure student progress in relation to these targeted objectives. This clarity helps to ensure that assessments effectively gauge student learning and performance and can inform instruction by identifying areas where students may need additional support or challenges. A focused assessment purpose also aids in communicating expectations to students, helping them understand what they need to learn and achieve. This set purpose builds a strong foundation for both teaching and learning, leading to more effective educational outcomes.