Terminology
If you have engaged in the process of developing an assessment plan before, you have probably heard terms such as goals, outcomes and/or assessment methods. You might be wondering, “What do all of these mean and why are they important?”
The following is a short list of several common terms that have been operationalized for Illinois State University as part of the assessment process.
- Goals
Broad, general statements about the processes in place in the program which ensure that students attain the intended student learning or program outcomes.
- Outcomes
Specific, measurable statements about what students should be able to do (Maki, 2004).
- Delivery Method
Any process used to provide students the intended learning outcomes.
- Assessment Method
Any process used to illustrate/demonstrate the students' accomplishments relative to the learning outcomes.
- Direct Methods of Assessment
Any product of learning which requires students to produce work that demonstrates their ability in an intended outcome (Palomba & Banta, 1999; Allen, 2004).
- Indirect Methods of Assessment
Any product of learning which allows students to reflect upon and/or discuss their learning experience or abilities in an intended outcome (Palomba & Banta, 1999; Allen, 2004).
- Feedback Loop
The ultimate goal of any assessment process is the use of data (i.e. feedback) to make evidence based decisions about outcomes, delivery methods, or other program aspects.
