Comprehensive universities across the United States take pride in the academic achievement of their students, and measure that achievement to determine their effectiveness as educational institutions (Pennsylvania State University, 2011; University of Kentucky, 2011; University of Georgia, 2011; University of Texas at Austin, 2011; University of Wisconsin, 2011). At the University of Florida, all degree programs have Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) associated with them that specify what students will know and be able to do as a result of completing their degree. All units on the campus are responsible for assessing the SLOs for their programs. Academic Assessment Plans provide a common framework for units to plan how they assess and measure student achievement of the SLOs as well as present the data and the process for how the data from these assessments are used to enhance the quality of student learning.
Academic Assessment Plans serve a number of purposes. First, they provide faculty a focal point for the discussion of the assessment of student learning in the degree programs. Second, the planning discussions provide an opportunity to revisit the curriculum and its relationship to the SLOs. Third, The Academic Assessment Plan provides a consistent reference resource when faculty and leadership change.
This resource provides a set of common components that all unit faculty should consider when developing their Academic Assessment Plans. These components are:
- Mission Statement
- Student Learning Outcomes
- Curriculum Maps
- Assessment Cycle
- Methods and Procedures
- Assessment Oversight
This resource provides a description and explanation of each of these components. To further assist faculty in developing these components, we provide recommended criteria to consider as you develop these components.
Due Date:
Undergraduate Academic Assessment Plans are due May 18, 2012. Email plans to Ashley Caspary, Office of Institutional Assessment, 352-273-4476.