To assess something is to estimate its value or worth. Assessment is the name of the process; the end result is also called an assessment.

Assessments come in several kinds.

The work of a learner can be assessed: an essay evaluated, a practical scrutinised, a test or exam marked.

The work of the teacher or tutor may be assessed, as part of a staff appraisal

Or the provision as a whole may be assessed, as we would do when considering a organisation for possible accreditation.

Other words are sometimes used. Staff assessments of an individual's performance at work are usually called appraisals. Assessments of schools or colleges are called inspections.

There are differences. An inspection implies a visit, and judging what is seen on the visit. An assessment may or may not involve a visit.

Both assessment and appraisal imply "putting a value" on the thing being assessed; an inspection may evaluate, but it may not.

Scrutiny, like inspection, implies a process based on looking and observing.

Examination implies more of an involvement with the subject, an active participation by the examiner not just passive observation.

Lovers of educational jargon often talk about different types of assessment.

Diagnostic assessments are used to monitor a learner's progress, find his strengths and weaknesses, and hopefully adjust the support accordingly.

Formative assessments tell the learner how he (or she) is getting on.

Summative assessments identify what the learner has achieved, and whether it's worthy of an award - passing an exam or gaining a qualification.

Other common types, where the meaning is more self-evident, include final assessments at the end of a course, to gauge success, and initial assessments at the start, used either to control entry, or to determine the kind & level of support needed.