Course level: At the
course level, assessment examines the degree to which students achieve the objectives
for a specific course. Faculty members engage in course assessment by evaluating
student performance on assignments, projects, and exams and then fine-tuning their
approach in the course to achieve a better outcome.
Program/department
level: At this level, assessment seeks to determine the degree
to which learning goals set by the faculty of the program are being met. These
goals flow directly from the mission of the program. To accomplish this mission,
students need to demonstrate certain learning outcomes: in-depth knowledge in
the field of study; general knowledge and competencies (e.g. problem-solving skills,
communication skills); and personal/interpersonal skills (e.g. ability to work
effectively in a group). Assessment seeks to determine the extent to which students
in the program can demonstrate these learning outcomes.
It is often the
case that the objectives for individual courses include or overlap with learning
outcomes for the overall program (e.g., communication skills). The distinguishing
feature of program assessment is that it addresses goals that are accomplished
across multiple courses in the curriculum.
Institutional level: At theinstitutional level, assessment seeks to
determine the degree to which broad institutional objectives are being met. For
example, how successful is Pratt in creating graduates with aesthetic judgment,
professional knowledge, collaborative skills, and technical expertise? (Mission
Statement). How well does it succeed in educating artists and creative professionals
to be responsible contributors to society? (Mission Statement).
Adapted
from Bridgewater State College Assessment Guidebook; downloaded on 11/23/04 from http://www.bridgew.edu/AssessmentGuidebook/
