RCTC Student Learning Assessment Glossary

January 2002

§ Assessment of Student Learning

The process of gathering and discussing information from multiple and diverse sources in order to develop a deep understanding of what students know, understand, and can do with their knowledge as a result of their educational experiences; the process culminates when assessment results are used to improve subsequent learning (Huba & Freed, 2000).

§ Student Learning Outcome

Statements describing intentions about what students should know, understand, and be able to do with their knowledge when they graduate (Huba & Freed, 2000).

§ Direct Assessment (Huba & Freed, 2000)

Students demonstrate what they know or can do with their knowledge. Direct assessments may include a:

ü Project – students complete an assignment over a prolonged period of time. To be successful, students must set goals, plan, use resources, organize, make judgements, and craft a written and/or visual presentation of material.

ü Performance – students prepare and present a performance of a valued activity.

ü Case Study – students are given a realistic example of an application in their field. They respond with an analysis using information and skills they have acquired.

ü Exhibition – a project, product, or performance that is presented to judges and defended or debated with them.

ü Clinical evaluation – students perform a professional service in a real-life setting.

ü Oral Exam - students answer spontaneous questions put to them by experts.

ü Comprehensive exam – students complete a time-limited essay test that requires them to organize and present central ideas, facts, and concepts in response to questions.

ü Portfolio – students gather examples of their work to include in a portfolio. They write about aspects of their learning and achievement and include their written reflections in the portfolio.

§ Indirect Assessment

A self-report measure that supplements and enriches a direct measure. Indirect measures can be used at the course, department/program, division or institutional level. Examples include surveys, self-evaluations, exit interviews, focus groups, transfer rates, and job placement data. (Milwaukee Area Technical College)

§ Rubrics – a set of scoring guidelines that can be used to evaluate student’s work. (DuPage)

§ Faculty Evaluation

A process of administrative review and consultation with faculty concerning performance in the faculty role. The feedback and insights developed through student learning assessments are not an appropriate foundation for faculty evaluation (DuPage)

Huba, M.E. & Freed, J. E. (2000). Learner-centered assessment on college campuses. Shifting the focus from teaching to learning. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon.

College of DuPage. (2000). Assessment An Institution-Wide Process to Improve and Support Student Learning. Glen Ellyn, IL.

Milwaukee Area Technical College (August 2000). Milwaukee Area Technical College Student Outcomes Assess Plan – UPDATE. Milwaukee, Wisconsin.