ABSTRACT
In this chapter you will be introduced to some of the theoretical and philosophical aspects of formative assessment and formative feedback – discussing the differences between formative assessment and formative feedback. We will outline the role of assessment (summative and formative) in the context of higher education and the culture of assessment in HE, including a discussion on what we are trying to achieve with formative assessment and formative feedback – and by association summative assessment. The chapter will also introduce the suggestion made throughout the book concerning the issue of students currently being driven by summative assessment and how a culture change is required to move to a learner centred environment embracing the principles of formative assessment and feedback.
