Assessment Versus Evaluation

Before we discuss the specifics of applying assessment techniques, we must first define the terms’ assessment’ and ‘evaluation’. While some individuals use the terms assessment and evaluation interchangeably, they are distinctly different^[1].

An assessment “is focused on measuring a performance, work product, or skill to offer feedback on strengths and weaknesses and to provide direction for improving future performance.”^[2]  An assessment tool is designed to analyze individual skills and criteria, which then leads to a plan to improve in areas that did not meet the standard. The focus is on measuring learning progress and achievement. It can then be used to adjust the instruction to improve the learner^[3].

Evaluations, on the other hand, “are designed to document the level of achievement that has been attained” and are a cumulative reflection of one’s performance or skill level at a defined moment^[4]. Evaluations are an endpoint analysis.

The key distinction between assessments and evaluations lies in how the gathered information is used. Information obtained using an assessment tool is designed to enhance future learning and performance. The evaluation is a determination of the current achievement level and is not necessarily used for future improvements^[5]. An assessment can be a tool to guide evaluation and provide evidence to support the judgments and decisions made^[6].

With this in mind, we will refer to the procedures presented in this guide as assessment tools. These tools will assist you in not only making an overall evaluation of a horse’s ability to safely participate in lessons but also in developing training plans to impact future performance. The assessment tools are designed to be repeatable, reflecting the horse’s improvement or deterioration of skills over time.