Have formal Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) or Student Learning Outcomes (SLOS) been developed?
Yes, “Goals for Student Learning in the Major”
Published where? (website)
Do PLOs include or imply link to Core Competency? (AY 2015-2016: Information Literacy)?
The Department defers to the GE goals as stated on the GE website.
Process of Core Competency Assessment:
Course (400- level)
CHEM 431
Assignment
Students are to formulate a research proposal that includes an introduction, background information, methodology, and expected outcomes.
Type of Student Artifact
A 5 page research proposal (with bibliography) in APS format.
Rubric or other instrument
GE Rubric for Information Literacy
Data (measurement of the competency)
The department evaluated nine (n=9) proposals using two blind readers from within the department. Students showed the greatest weakness in Evaluating Resources (average = 2.11). However readers were not calibrated in this one particular category, suggesting internal departmental discussion over what constituted competency in this area looks like is needed.
Two of the nine papers garnered aggregate scores of less than Emerging (1.625 and 1.85) reflecting poor skills in all four categories, suggesting some seniors are still struggling with effective use of information.
Action Taken in Response to the Data (What will you do in response to the Findings?)
Assignment instructions will be refined so that students will have a better understanding of what is expected of them when writing a research proposal.
Date of Last Program Review
2016