RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN CONTINUOUS ASSESSMENT AND EXAMINATION SCORES IN EDUCATIONAL STATISTICS IN THE DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, BENUE STATE UNIVERSITY MAKURDI.

Abstract

The relationship between continuous assessment (CA) and end-of-semester examination scores is a critical area of investigation in educational assessment. Continuous assessment serves as a formative tool that gauges students' understanding and progress throughout a course, while end-of-semester examinations are summative assessments that measure cumulative knowledge and performance. Investigating this relationship not only provides insight into students' academic development but also informs instructional strategies, offering educators a foundation for refining teaching methods, improving student engagement, and enhancing overall educational performance. This paper investigates the relationship between continuous assessment (CA) scores and examination scores among undergraduate students in Educational Statistics at Benue State University, Makurdi. The primary objective is to assess whether CA scores can predict examination outcomes and to determine if this relationship varies based on gender. Using a correlational research design, the study sampled 153 students from a population of 291 level 300 students, selected through multi-stage cluster sampling. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics and Pearson Product Moment Correlation (PPMC). The findings reveal a significant positive relationship between CA scores and examination outcomes, confirming that CA scores can effectively predict students' examination performance. Furthermore, the study found no significant variation in the relationship between CA and end-of-semester examination scores based on gender. These results underscore the importance of continuous assessment as a predictor of academic performance. The paper concludes by recommending that lecturers emphasize the importance of CA to students and that students be guided and encouraged to maintain consistent effort throughout the semester