Summative evaluation is best described as:

Summative evaluation is best described as:

• A. Specific feedback during implementation.
• B. An ongoing process during evaluation.
• C. Data collected at the start.
• D. Anecdotal feedback received during the evaluative process.

Answer: (D)

Summative evaluation focuses on judging the overall effectiveness of a program after it has been implemented. It gathers data at the end of a cycle to determine whether goals were met, what outcomes occurred, and what decisions should be made next (continue, modify, or discontinue). This final, end-of-cycle assessment contrasts with formative evaluation, which collects information during implementation to guide ongoing improvement. Baseline data collected at the start helps establish where you began but isn’t the basis for a final judgment of success. End-of-program measures like final outcomes, test results, or completion rates are typical examples of summative evidence.

Summative evaluation focuses on judging the overall effectiveness of a program after it has been implemented. It gathers data at the end of a cycle to determine whether goals were met, what outcomes occurred, and what decisions should be made next (continue, modify, or discontinue). This final, end-of-cycle assessment contrasts with formative evaluation, which collects information during implementation to guide ongoing improvement. Baseline data collected at the start helps establish where you began but isn’t the basis for a final judgment of success. End-of-program measures like final outcomes, test results, or completion rates are typical examples of summative evidence.