Summative evaluation is an assessment method used to evaluate the overall effectiveness, outcomes, or impact of a program, project, intervention, or learning initiative. Unlike formative evaluation, which focuses on providing feedback for improvement during the development or implementation phase, summative evaluation is typically conducted at the end of the program or project to determine its success in achieving its objectives and goals.

Key characteristics of summative evaluation include:

1. Endpoint Assessment:

   • Summative evaluation is conducted at the conclusion of the program, project, or intervention, providing a comprehensive assessment of the final results or outcomes.

2. Overall Effectiveness:

   • It assesses the overall effectiveness of the program in meeting its intended objectives, goals, or outcomes.

3. Outcome Measurement:

   • Summative evaluation measures the actual outcomes and results of the initiative, including the extent to which objectives were achieved and the impact on participants or stakeholders.

4. Accountability and Decision-Making:

   • Summative evaluation often serves as a tool for accountability, providing stakeholders with information to make decisions about the continuation, modification, or discontinuation of the program.

5. Judgment of Success:

   • It involves making judgments about the success or failure of the program based on predetermined criteria, standards, or benchmarks.

6. Formal and Structured:

   • Summative evaluation is typically formal and structured, involving predefined metrics, indicators, or criteria against which the outcomes are assessed.

7. Reporting to Stakeholders:

   • The results of summative evaluation are often reported to various stakeholders, including funders, policymakers, administrators, and the wider community.

Examples of summative evaluation methods include:

• Surveys and Questionnaires: Collecting data from participants or stakeholders to assess their satisfaction, knowledge gain, or perceptions of the program.

• Examinations and Tests: If the program involves educational or training components, assessing the participants through exams or tests to measure their knowledge and skills.

• Performance Metrics: Measuring specific performance metrics or key performance indicators (KPIs) related to the program’s goals.

• Comparison with Benchmarks: Comparing the actual outcomes with predetermined benchmarks or standards to determine success or failure.

Summative evaluation provides valuable insights into the overall effectiveness and impact of a program, helping stakeholders understand its outcomes and make informed decisions for future planning and improvement.