An assessment process that involves using the regular work that students produce in their classes as the material that is assessed or evaluated. These activities may be evaluated in different ways, depending on the student learning outcomes that are being targeted.

Desired level of performance. Often used synonymously with outcome or desired result.

The systematic collection, review, and use of information about educational programs for the purpose of improving student learning. Assessment is a process that includes developing a statement of expected outcomes, the criteria for achievement, and the appropriate measurement tools or strategies for determining how well the outcomes have been met.

Assessment tasks that are realistic and meaningful to the student. Students demonstrate their knowledge or skills through performance in a “real-life” context, as opposed to standardized tests. Rubrics are typically used to measure student performance in an authentic assessment.

Formative evaluation that provides the instructor with feedback on the effectiveness of classroom teaching strategies and methods.

Collection of data about the degree to which the student learning outcomes for a specific course are evidenced in student learning. Faculty engage in course assessment by evaluating student performance on assignments, projects, and exams, and then using that information to improve student learning. The focus is on understanding the performance of a [..]

Curriculum mapping is a process for collecting and recording curriculum-related data to identify core skills and content taught, processes employed, and assessments used for each course and level in a degree program. The purpose of a curriculum map is to document the relationship among the components in the curriculum, and ultimately, to create a m [..]

Assessment information based on a sample of actual student work, including reports, exams, demonstrations, performances, presentations, and completed works. This is in contrast to an indirect measure. Examples include writing samples, exams, portfolios, presentations, scores on performance rubrics, etc.

Students who, at the time of admissions, have never attended any postsecondary institution since graduation from high school, or whose only postsecondary enrollment was in the summer term immediately prior to their first fall enrollment at the university.

Students are identified as first-generation if neither parent nor guardian earned a 4-year college degree.