What is one benefit of using formative assessments?

Using formative assessments provides the significant benefit of informing instruction during the learning process. This type of assessment is designed to monitor student learning and provide ongoing feedback that can be used by instructors to improve their teaching practices and by students to enhance their learning. By identifying areas where students may be struggling or excelling, educators can adjust their instructional strategies in real-time, tailoring lessons to meet the needs of their students more effectively. This dynamic and responsive approach makes it possible to support individual learning needs and promote a deeper understanding of the material.

In contrast, the other options do not reflect the essential purpose of formative assessments. Formative assessments do not automatically increase grades, nor do they replace the need for final tests, as they serve a different function in the educational process. Additionally, while these assessments may involve content retention, their primary aim is to support ongoing learning and development, rather than focusing solely on what students remember.