B.A. & B.S. Biology – Written Communication (2017-2018)

Have formal Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) or Student Learning Outcomes (SLOS) been developed?

Yes, “Goals for Student Learning in the Major”

Published where? (website)

Biology webpage

Do PLOs include or imply link to Core Competency? (AY 2017-2018: Written Communication)?

“They [students] will also develop skill in oral and written presentation of scientific information.”

Process of Core Competency Assessment:

Course (400- level)

BIOL 477 – Avian Biology

Assignment

Students will identify a specific biological topic, formulate hypotheses, undertake research to address their hypotheses, and communicate their results in a proper research paper.

Type of Student Artifact

8-10 page research paper in CSE format with proper bibliography

Rubric or other instrument

GE Rubric for Written Communication

Data (measurement of the competency)

On a scale of 0-4 for each of the core competencies, the 12 students averaged between 3.1 and 3.3 on each. These scores can be viewed as a B+ average, so are quite satisfactory. The Department Chair will work with other faculty members to ensure that writing core competencies are clearly defined and remain a focus of instruction in many of our courses.

Evaluator Tabular Data

Action Taken in Response to the Data (What will you do in response to the Findings?)

On a scale of 0-4 for each of the core competencies, the 12 students averaged between 3.1 and 3.3 on each. These scores can be viewed as a B+ average, so are quite satisfactory. The Department Chair will work with other faculty members to ensure that writing core competencies are clearly defined and remain a focus of instruction in many of our courses.

Date of Last Program Review

2005

Biology MOU