What are learning outcomes?
Learning Outcomes are statements of the knowledge, skills, and abilities the individual student possesses and can demonstrate upon completion of a learning experience or sequence of learning experiences (e.g., course, program, general education-MATC core abilities).
Program Outcomes state what a graduate needs to be able to do with the essential knowledge, skills, attitudes, and behaviors acquired in the program.
Course Outcome statements describe the specific knowledge and skills students are expected to acquire as a result of the course.
Core Abilities (general education outcomes) MATC emphasizes eight Core Abilities that are key life and success skills that support students as life-long learners on the job, at home, and in the community. Core Abilities are skills taught and assessed in classes, labs, and field experiences, as well as co-curricular activities. See our core abilities link for more information.
What is Assessment?
Assessment is an on-going process aimed at understanding and improving student learning. It involves making our expectations explicit and public; setting appropriate criteria and high standards for learning quality; systematically gathering, analyzing, and interpreting evidence to determine how well performance matches those expectations and standards; and using the resulting information to document, explain, and improve performance. When it is embedded effectively within larger institutional systems, assessment can help us focus our collective attention, examine our assumptions, and create a shared academic culture dedicated to assuring and improving the quality of higher education.
Assessment Processes at MATC
MATC Learning Outcomes Assessment Process & Timeline
Classroom Assessment
Classroom assessment is the process of using classroom activities and experiments to obtain information on student learning. This information is used to provide feedback to students and to make adjustments in instruction to improve learning.
Learning Systems Quality Improvement Process (LSQIP)
The Learning Systems Quality Improvement Processes provides the basis for MATC's organizational self-assessment for instructional programs and service units. All learning programs assess students for program outcome competency and core ability development. This assessment data in the LSQIP portfolio is analyzed by programs for continuous improvement purposes.
Academic quality Improvement Project (AQIP)
MATC is participating in AQIP, which is a new re-accreditation process developed by the North Central Association to guide colleges in their efforts to be quality institutions.
Learn more about MATC resources to support classroom assessment by accessing the resources listed below. Support and resources for assessment are available via CETL Staff. Examples of support services are:
- The application of classroom assessment techniques (CATs)
- One-on-one assessment consulting
- Assistance in the design of formative and summative assessment tools for classroom use
- Assistance in the development of program and course outcomes and Learning Outcomes Matrices (LOM)
- Assistance and training on the Learning Outcomes Assessment Database (LOAD) for reporting summative assessment.
- Training on classroom assessment of core abilities and program outcomes
- Provide on-line resources via the Assessment Resources Blackboard site
- Provide on-line Core Abilities and Program Outcomes training for faculty (requires registration with the Assessment Consultant)
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