Which method best represents an assessment of instructional effectiveness?

Summative assessment data is a strong representation of instructional effectiveness because it evaluates students' learning at the end of an instructional period. This type of assessment measures how well students have absorbed the material and whether they have achieved the learning objectives set for the course. By analyzing the results of summative assessments, educators can determine the effectiveness of their teaching strategies and the overall impact of instruction on student learning.

The use of data from summative assessments allows for a comprehensive understanding of both individual student performance and the success of the instructional methods employed. It reflects the culmination of the educational process and provides insight into areas that may require adjustment or enhancement in teaching practices.

In contrast, while project-based learning outcomes can showcase student engagement and creativity, they may not capture a broader range of learning objectives as efficiently as summative assessments. Attendance records track student participation but do not directly correlate with learning outcomes. Grade averages from prior terms provide historical data but may not reflect current teaching effectiveness or student performance under new instructional methods.