Assessment of Student Learning
Excellence in student learning is at the heart of the University’s mission. As such, the assessment of student learning is a critical component of assessing institutional effectiveness. The assessment of student learning at Lincoln begins with the development of student learning outcomes. According to Suskie (2009), a learning outcome is the action statement of the knowledge, skills, attitudes, values, and habits of mind that students take with them from a learning experience. Outcomes should be clearly articulated in observable and as much as possible, measurable terms. Learning opportunities and experiences are provided so students can achieve the established outcomes. Student achievement is measured and most importantly the results are used to improve teaching and learning.
All of the University’s graduate and undergraduate academic programs are assessed based on the following standards of the Middle States Commission:
Standard 3: Design and Delivery of the Student Learning Experience
An institution provides students with learning experiences that are characterized by rigor and coherence at all program, certificate, and degree levels, regardless of instructional modality. All learning experiences, regardless of modality, program pace/schedule, level and setting are consistent with higher education expectations.
Standard 4: Support of the Student Experience
Across all educational experiences, settings, levels, and instructional modalities, the institution recruits and admits students whose interests, abilities, experiences, and goals are congruent with its mission and educational offerings. The institution commits to student retention, persistence, completion, and success through a coherent and effective support system sustained by qualified professionals, which enhances the quality of the learning environment, contributes to the educational experience, and fosters student success.
Standard 5: Educational Effectiveness Assessment
Assessment of student learning and achievement demonstrates that the institution’s students have accomplished educational goals consistent with their program of study, degree level, the institution’s mission, and appropriate expectations for institutions of higher education.
(MSCHE 2014)
Evaluation & Assessment Committee
The Committee on Assessment & Evaluation works to support faculty in their efforts to develop and assess student learning outcomes for programmatic, teaching and learning improvement. Functions of the Committee include:
- Establishing, reviewing and updating assessment policies and guidelines
- Communicating assessment expectations and results to faculty
- Providing constructive feedback on student learning assessment plans and results
- Facilitating university wide discussion of assessment results for improvement
- Maintain awareness of assessment best practices and communicate them to faculty
- Support academic departments in the program review process
- Recommend changes for improving the University’s assessment process
The Committee is chaired by an appointed faculty members and comprises of elected faculty representatives from each College, a faculty representative from the library and a representative from the Graduate faculty. Standing members include: the Vice President of Academic Affairs (or designee), the Director of Institutional Effectiveness, Research and Planning, an Alumnus on staff, an undergraduate student and a graduate student.