Assessment

In dealing with proper assessment, I wish to be more project based than test based. What good is a test for? With my social constructivism approach to teaching I believe direct-social interaction with a very hands-on approach to learning must be used for any "real" learning to take place. Anybody can remember information for a test and just spit it back on a piece of paper but like I said earlier, what good is that test for? Assessment ONLY guides instruction...my group projects and interaction will LEAD my instruction!