May 2014, Issue 5
Professional Competency
This year, NASPA/ACPA Competencies for Student Affairs Professionals are being highlighted at each UTSA Student Affairs Council meeting. The focus for May was Assessment, Evaluation, and Research, and here is some information from that meeting. When reviewing this competency, participants identified these challenges:
- Incorporating strategic planning and assessment at all levels.
- Conducting on-going meaningful data collection.
- Using the results effectively to improve programs/services.
Do you agree with these challenges?
According to a 2011 study conducted by the Education Advisory Board-Student Affairs Leadership Council, common causes for poor assessment results in divisions of student affairs include:
- Right Outcome Not Assessed.
- Instrument Flaws.
- Wrong Method Used.
- Sample Too Small.
Additionally, even when quality assessment is in place, using the results to improve student learning can also be a challenge. Where do you align with regard to the statements below?
Ideal
- Focus assessment based on learning outcomes.
- Analyze data for trends.
- Future planning based on results.
Typical
- Identify learning outcomes.
- Staff collect data.
- Results are compiled into reports.
Source: Education Advisory Board, Student Affairs Leadership Council, 2011.
So, how do we address these challenges? We can begin by continuing this conversation and ensuring we are on the same page about what should be assessed division-wide. For example, with GRIP, we know there is an emphasis on retention and graduation rates, which we can measure. In addition, we are beginning to think about how to effectively assess REACH as our learning outcomes framework. As we begin to discuss these larger questions, we can also collectively strengthen our assessment approaches.
As you think about the strengths and needs of our assessment efforts, here are some resources that might be helpful:
- 5 Things Not to Do When Conducting Surveys
- Assessing College Student Growth in Student Affairs
- Data-Driven Planning
- Student Learning and Institutional Accountability
- Knowing What Students Know and Can Do
- Institutional Assessment Practices
See you next month!
Kasey
Kasey Neece-Fielder
Director of Strategic Planning and Assessment
Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs
kasey.neece-fielder@utsa.edu
http://utsa.edu/students/assessment/