Learning Outcomes Assessment
Academic Program Assessment
All academic programs offered at the University of Idaho lead to the achievement of clearly identified program-level student learning outcomes, consistent with the field and level of study. Program learning outcomes for all degrees, certificates and credentials are published in the University of Idaho Catalog and accessible to students and the public.
U of I Program Learning Outcomes Assessment Basics
- Every major, degree, certificate and/or credential identifies a set of learning outcomes, which students who complete the ‘program of study,’ should achieve by the time they complete their studies. These learning outcomes are published in the U of I catalog and communicated to both students and faculty. These guide the curriculum.
- Each ‘program of study’ has a minimum of three program learning outcomes.
- Program learning outcomes are specific to the field of study and/or industry for which the program prepares students for and may align with an industry or professional organization’s standards for learning. They are unique to each program and level of study. These statements are developed in collaboration with faculty, industry advisors, students and other stakeholders, using disciplinary expertise, employment trends and best practices. Additionally, they are reviewed periodically to ensure currency.
- Programs with programmatic accreditation are encouraged to report on those same learning outcomes for university assessment processes.
- A minimum of one program learning outcome is assessed each year, with all assessed over a three-year cycle. Some programs choose to assess all outcomes every year.
- Assessment is the gathering of evidence of student learning and using this data in continuous improvement efforts. This evidence must include a direct measure, where a student is given an appropriate opportunity to show faculty how well they can perform or demonstrate the specific learning outcome being measured.
- Faculty with content and disciplinary expertise use their judgment to determine how well a student performs on a specific program learning outcome.
- Responding to assessment data and making curricular changes that leads to measurable improvement for our students, means we have closed the loop and is reason to celebrate.
Who is responsible for assessment efforts?
We all have a role to play in assessment. Select your role to learn more.