The Challenge of Assessing Character: Measuring APA Goal 3 Student Learning Outcomes

Abstract

Goal 3 of the APA Goals for Undergraduate Major in Psychology specifies three dimensions of character development deemed central to the major. The purpose of this article is to review the current state of practice that addresses how we measure student learning in ethical reasoning, interpersonal relationship-building, and diversity-related skills, including globally. Deemed the most difficult goal to measure by the organizers of the Summit on National Assessment in Psychology, Goal 3 still generated a variety of strategies to assist in teaching and assessing aspects of the major dedicated to character development; however, this category remains one of significant untapped potential. We conclude by evaluating what gaps in assessing these goals exist and still need to be addressed.