Elements of Academic Assessment

Academic assessment is an essential component of quality improvement and accountability for all departments and academic programs (majors, minors, and degrees) at UW-Whitewater. A comprehensive system of assessment provides departments and programs with the data they need to make evidence-based decisions and also forms the basis for rich faculty, staff, and student discussions about ways to improve teaching, learning, and department/program function.

An effective system of academic assessment includes the following elements, within each department or academic program.

Assessment of Student Learning:

• A manageable set of student learning outcomes is defined for each major, standalone minor, and degree program.
• Learning outcomes represent the values, mission, and strategic plan of the university, college, and academic departments involved.
• Learning outcomes for undergraduate majors and minors are coordinated with the wider campus baccalaureate learning outcomes (LEAP Essential Learning Outcomes), where appropriate.
• A matrix or other method shows how courses in the curriculum are linked to the learning outcomes.
• Both direct and indirect methods of assessment are used to measure the degree to which students typically achieve the learning outcomes by the time they graduate. A mix of quantitative, qualitative, internal, and external methods is also encouraged.
• A subset of learning outcomes are measured (assessed) each year, and there is a plan for measuring all outcomes over a longer period of time.
• Assessment data are reviewed at least annually within each department or academic program, using a regular and systematic process.
• Assessment data are used to identify ways to improve teaching and learning, and departments and programs commit to those improvements.
• Assessment results and improvements are shared with stakeholders, including students and the wider community.

Program Evaluation:

• Departments/programs have a regular and systematic process for setting goals (e.g., annual goals) for improvement.
• Evaluation data, outcomes, or other indicators are collected and reviewed as evidence of goal achievement.
• There is a regular and systematic process for monitoring and reporting on progress.
• Faculty, staff, and other appropriate stakeholders are involved in setting goals and monitoring progress.

For more information, or for assistance with academic assessment, please contact:

Dr. Joan Cook
Director of Academic Assessment
cookj@uww.edu
(262) 472-1530