|
Examples of Assessment by Institution |
|
Skidmore College first fostered a culture of assessment in departments some ten years ago, beginning with goals for learning at each level. Believing that faculty in their disciplines can best determine the goals and methods of assessing student learning, Skidmore’s faculty use both direct and indirect measures as they consider what students are learning and whether changes in curriculum or pedagogy are called for. Departments are charged to answer the questions: What is it your students should learn? How do you convey those goals? How do you know what and where they are learning? And finally: What can you do to help your students learn more?
The departments' answers to these questions consistently reflect liberal arts values. To cite just one example, after launching a new curriculum for the major, Biology developed a new assessment plan. It includes an exit exam on content, and also a sampling of lab reports and oral presentations to gauge "scientific thinking," writing, speaking and critical thinking skills. Other departments may meet as a whole to discuss their seniors' capstone work; gather information from alumni on long-range learning; or assess learning in specific courses or contexts.
Overarching learning goals and assessments in the college are also underway.
|
|
Skidmore College |
