What type of assessment focuses on early developmental milestones to determine if further testing is needed?

Screening tests are designed specifically to identify individuals who may need further evaluation or support based on early developmental milestones. They serve as a preliminary filter to determine whether a child is developing typically or may be at risk for developmental delays or disorders. This type of assessment is quick and generally involves standardized tools to check for specific skills or behaviors associated with various developmental stages. It is not intended to provide a comprehensive evaluation but rather to pinpoint the need for additional diagnostic testing.

Formative assessments are aimed at monitoring student learning and providing ongoing feedback to improve teaching and learning processes. They are more qualitative and are used during instructional periods.

Diagnostic assessments are conducted to identify specific learning difficulties or areas of need after concerns have been raised; they involve more in-depth evaluations.

Summative assessments occur at the end of an instructional period to evaluate what students have learned, often used for reporting and accountability purposes.

Understanding how and when to use these different assessment types is crucial for educators, as it influences the decisions made regarding a child's learning path and potential need for interventions.