Concept of Formative assessment and Strategies for its effective implementation under Competency-Based Medical Education: A Review

Abstract

Internal assessments are routinely conducted by faculty in Medical Institution to evaluate students. In most institutions, it is done with the main objective of documenting internal assessment marks to be included in the final University Examination. Under the new curriculum for Indian Medical Graduates 2019, there has been a paradigm shift from conventional to Competency-Based Medical Education with major revisions in the assessment methods. Focus has shifted from purely summative to a combination of both formative and summative assessment. Formative assessment involves giving regular feedbacks to students which helps them to learn better and motivates faculties to improve their teaching skills. Therefore, it becomes essential for all faculties in medical institutions to know these changes through faculty development programs and understand the key strategies for its successful implementation. This article highlights the perspective of formative assessment, different methods commonly used, and the scope for future research in our settings.