Which description best defines summative feedback?

• A. Feedback focused on ongoing daily tasks
• B. Feedback aimed at improving current performance
• C. Feedback focused on goal achievement that is generally higher stakes
• D. Feedback provided only by external consultants

Answer: (C)

Summative feedback centers on the overall results of a learning period and is tied to whether goal outcomes were met, often carrying high stakes like grades or certifications. This type of feedback summarizes performance after a defined end point, helping decide if you’ve achieved the intended outcomes rather than guiding day-to-day improvements. That’s why describing it as feedback focused on goal achievement with generally higher stakes is the best fit.

Think of final exam results, end-of-term grades, or a year-end performance review as examples. They assess the entire stretch of work rather than pointing out what to adjust right now. In contrast, feedback about ongoing daily tasks is formative, aimed at improving current performance as you go. Feedback aimed at improving current performance is also formative, not summative. The source of the feedback (external consultants or not) isn’t what defines summative feedback.