What do performance-based assessments measure?

Performance-based assessments are designed to measure the learning outcomes of individual students by evaluating how well they can apply their knowledge and skills in practical tasks. Unlike traditional assessments that may focus on rote memorization or straightforward responses, performance-based assessments involve active engagement from students, where they demonstrate their understanding through projects, presentations, or real-world applications. This type of assessment allows educators to gauge not only what students know but also how effectively they can transfer their knowledge to real-life contexts, making it a comprehensive method for assessing student learning and skills development.

In contrast, other options focus on different aspects of education. The teaching methods pertain to how instruction is delivered rather than what students have learned. The curriculum refers to the content and structure of what is taught, which does not directly assess student performance. Lastly, the time taken to complete a task does not necessarily reflect the quality or depth of a student's learning. Thus, the correct option focuses on the direct measurement of individual student learning outcomes through their performance on specific tasks.