Which assessment type involves structured documents and observations over time?

Portfolio assessment is a method that compiles a structured collection of a student's work and associated documentation over a period. This assessment type emphasizes not only the end results of the student's efforts but also the processes and progress made along the way. By gathering various artifacts—such as completed assignments, projects, and even teacher observations—portfolio assessments provide a comprehensive view of a student's skills, learning trajectory, and areas for growth.

The structured nature of portfolio assessments allows educators to evaluate student performance holistically and track changes over time, making it particularly useful in special education. This ongoing assessment can guide instructional decisions and interventions tailored to meet individual learning needs, contributing to a more personalized educational experience.

Other types of assessments listed may involve observations or documentation, but they do not offer the cumulative, longitudinal view of student progress that portfolio assessments do. For instance, an adaptive behavior inventory focuses more on specific skills related to daily living, while a diagnostic probe assesses specific academic knowledge at a point in time. Anecdotal records capture individual instances of behavior or performance, but they lack the comprehensive, structured approach that a portfolio assessment embodies.