Analytic and Holistic Assessment

Analytic assessment refers to specific approach in the assessment of learning outcomes. In this procedure, students are given feedback on how well they are doing on each important aspect of specific task expected from them. Assessment then is made specific based on the importance of the performance. With this, assessment shouldn't be undertaken in part but must address the whole performance.

Holistic assessment refers to a global approach in the assessment of a student-learning outcome. Sadler (2009) pointed out that in holistic assessment, the teacher or the assessor has to develop complex mental responses to a student's work and in evaluating the student's work, the assessor provides a grade and supports it with a valid justification for assigning the grade.

Moreover, holistic assessment could be in the form of reflection papers and journals, peer assessment, self-assessment, group presentation and portfolio. The application of the various assessment methods need to be tailored in a way that it will enhance a student's personal strength. Subsequently, the correct application of holistic assessment in the various areas of study is expected to improve the student's learning outcomes (Akubuilo, 2012)

One positive implication that may result from holistic assessment is that the students are competent to handle assessment tasks accurately (Sadler, 2009). Most students provide the requirements of most assessment tasks. Through holistic assessment, the students are able to develop decisive and investigative skills that permit them to handle assessment tasks effectively. Moreover, the students are capable of knowing how to construct concrete responses to questions.