The effects of descriptive assessment on student learning and its relationship with mental health using structural equation modeling

Background: Student learning is influenced by numerous factors, with descriptive assessment being one of the key components. This study aims to analyze the effects of descriptive assessment on student learning and its relationship with mental health. Methods: This descriptive-correlational study employed Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) using AMOS software to analyze the relationships among variables. The statistical population included elementary school students in Tehran during the academic year 2022-2023, from which were selected through simple random sampling. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied to ensure data validity, and participants reflected diverse socio-economic backgrounds. Standardized, validated questionnaires were used to measure descriptive assessment, learning outcomes, and mental health, with data collected under controlled classroom conditions. Results: The results showed a significant relationship between attitudes toward hijab, health-promoting religious behaviors, and social health among female students. Also, descriptive assessment has a significant impact on student learning and mental health, leading to improvements in their understanding, learning outcomes, and mental well-being. Additionally, factors such as motivation, self-assessment, and received feedback play a crucial role in this process. The presented models indicated that descriptive assessment can indirectly improve academic performance and mental health by increasing motivation and enhancing self-assessment. Conclusion: Descriptive assessment is recognized as an effective tool in the learning process and mental health of students. This study recommends that educational policymakers consider incorporating descriptive assessment as part of the educational evaluation system to improve student learning and mental health.