A Is for Assessment

Abstract

This is a personalized review of programs designed to assess student learning outcomes (SLOs) in higher education. In the last 30+ years, there have been few changes in the basic principles and premises. We assess SLOs for the purpose of improving teaching and learning. Although content area knowledge is important, other goals such as enhancing critical thinking skills, understanding diversity of all types, acting ethically, and communicating in appropriate ways for different audiences are equally important. Rapid increases in the use of technology have created a renewed emphasis on understanding how students learn best and thus the assessment of SLOs has moved to the center of contemporary educational debate. In addition, the goal of creating psychologically literate citizens is propelling a broad range of outcome measures.