Assessments are never neutral—they carry assumptions that influence how students experience learning. Traditional summative assessments, like exams, assume that knowledge is fixed and measurable, and that success can be captured in a score. This often creates competition and pressure. While these assessments provide clear benchmarks, they can also cause stress and narrow learning to test preparation. Formative assessments, on the other hand, assume that learning is an ongoing process where mistakes help growth. They encourage reflection and confidence, but if feedback is poorly handled, it can feel overwhelming. Performance-based assessments, such as projects, assume that real-world tasks show true competence and value creativity. These promote critical thinking but can be resource-heavy and sometimes subjective.

An alternative form of assessment highlighted in the video is peer assessment. In this approach, students evaluate each other’s work using clear criteria. It assumes that learners can be trusted as co-assessors and that collaboration enhances learning. Peer assessment fosters critical thinking, ownership, and deeper engagement because students learn by reviewing others’ work. However, challenges include ensuring fairness and training students to give constructive feedback. When done well, it shifts the focus from ranking to learning together.