School-Based Assessments as an Instrument for Objective Measurement of Student Achievement and Educational Quality in General Secondary Education: A Comprehensive Analytical Study from Azerbaijan

Background and Purpose: Assessment is one of the most crucial elements in modern education, serving as both a diagnostic and developmental tool.In the context of Azerbaijan's general secondary education system, school-based assessment has gained particular importance as a mechanism for measuring student achievement objectively, ensuring alignment between learning objectives and curriculum standards, and improving overall education quality.This study explores the role of school-based assessments, including summative, formative, diagnostic, and self-assessment approaches, in enhancing teaching and learning outcomes.Methods:The study employed a descriptive-analytical approach, relying on a comprehensive review of legal, policy, and conceptual frameworks, including the Law on Education of the Republic of Azerbaijan ( 2009), the Concept of Assessment in the General Education System (2009), and the State Strategy on the Development of Education (2013).Secondary literature on educational measurement and assessment methods was also analyzed to contextualize the evolution of school-based assessment practices.