Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes

The three most common questions that people have about student learning outcomes assessment are: 1) what is the difference between classroom assessment and student learning outcomes assessment, 2) why do we have to do it and 3) how do we do it. 

What is the difference between classroom assessment and student learning outcomes assessment?

Classroom assessment differs from student learning outcomes assessment in how the results of the assessments are analyzed and used.  Classroom assessment focuses on individual students.  Its results are used to help each student assess the extent to which he/she has acquired the knowledge and/or skills taught in the course.  Student learning outcomes assessment focuses on the educational program (e.g. the major) and its results are used to improve curriculum and pedagogy.  Different foci do not always imply different assessments.  Often times, student performance data derived from classroom assessment are aggregated to evidence program effectiveness as well. 

Why do we have to do student learning outcomes assessment?

The public’s demand for accountability in higher education has been the driving force behind student learning outcomes assessment.   Both regional and professional accreditors require member institutions to evidence the quality of student learning.  Some of the professional accreditors, such as the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) and the National Architectural Accrediting Board (NAAB) prescribed how student learning is to be assessed.  Regional accreditors, such as the Southern Association of Colleges and Universities (SACS) which UNC Charlotte is accredited by, allow their member institutions to decide. However, one thing is very clear, the public wants higher education held accountability for quality.  The U.S. Department of Education is currently trying to identify measures of quality but in the meantime, accreditors continue to stiffen their requirements for the assessment of student learning outcomes. 

How we do student learning outcomes assessment?

Student learning outcomes are assessed many different ways at UNC Charlotte.  Assessment methods range from tests to assess knowledge, to presentations and recitals to gauge skills development, to student teaching and internships to demonstrate competency in the workplace.  Assessment methodology differs depending on the student learning outcomes to be assessed.  The goal is to utilize existing assessments wherever possible.  If you have been given responsibility for student learning outcomes assessment in your academic department, please contact me, Cathy Sanders, at casander@uncc.edu or (704-687-2091) so that we can discuss the specific student learning outcomes to be assessed and determine the best methodology for doing so.