Formative Evaluation is an assessment method used during the development process. It aims to improve the quality of a component or system.
Key Aspects:
1. Conducted during development
2. Focuses on improvement
3. Provides ongoing feedback
4. Involves stakeholders
5. Iterative in nature
Benefits:
1. Identifies issues early
2. Reduces development costs
3. Improves final product quality
4. Enhances user satisfaction
5. Supports informed decision-making
Formative evaluation is commonly used in software development, instructional design and educational programs. It contrasts with summative evaluation, which assesses the final product.