What is the primary purpose of using anecdotal notes in student assessment?

The primary purpose of using anecdotal notes in student assessment is to record specific observations of student behavior or performance. Anecdotal notes allow educators to capture individual instances that reflect a student's understanding, skills, and social interactions in real-time. This qualitative data provides insights that quantitative methods, such as numerical scores, cannot capture. It helps teachers to identify patterns, monitor progress over time, and make informed instructional decisions tailored to the needs of each student. By focusing on detailed observations, educators can better understand the context of a student's learning and behavior, which contributes to a more holistic approach to assessment.