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Examples of Assessment by Institution |
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Vanderbilt University: In the fall of 2005, the College of Arts and Science launched its new liberal arts requirements, AXLE (Achieving Excellence in Liberal Education). The curriculum consists of a first-year writing seminar, 100- and 200-level writing courses, thirteen courses distributed across six areas of inquiry (Humanities & Creative Arts, International Cultures, History & Culture of the United States, Mathematics & Natural Sciences, Social & Behavioral Sciences, and Perspectives), and the major. The aim is for each student to demonstrate (1) breadth of knowledge, (2) excellence in writing skills, (3) an understanding of diverse modes of thinking and of evaluating information, and (4) a global and historical perspective of human experience. Assessment begins in earnest in 2008-09, the inaugural class's senior year. The first learning outcome will be assessed with surveys and registrar data; the second outcome will be assessed by having a sample of final papers from 100-level writing course evaluated by a panel of faculty members using a writing-skills rubric and by surveying faculty who teach advanced writing courses; the third and fourth outcomes will be assessed longitudinally by having a sample of students complete an essay exercise in their first year and again in their third or fourth year; the third outcome will also be assessed with surveys of alumni.
Learning outcomes are also assessed in all undergraduate majors on a regular basis. All programs use at least some direct assessment methods, such as comprehensive exams, capstone experiences, and independent evaluations of student works (these evaluations are conducted by committees of program faculty using rubrics specific to the program); in addition, various indirect methods, such as course grades, program completion rates, and research participation, are used by many programs. Results of these assessments have led to revisions of courses and curricula, and to other program improvements. |
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Vanderbilt University |
