Program Assessment
Program Assessment is an on-going process of measuring the extent to which
students are learning specific knowledge and skills determined by the faculty
within credentialed programs. The results are then used by faculty to
substantiate curriculum and pedagogical changes needed to enhance student
learning.
At OCC all credit programs which lead to a degree or certificate are required
to have a fully developed plan for the assessment of student learning in place
before the program begins accepting students. The criteria are based on the type
of credential awarded by the program e.g. Associate Degree, Certificate or
Certificate of Achievement.
- Associate Degree programs must have at least three learning outcomes, while
program options/concentrations must have at least two learning outcomes which
address the distinctiveness of the option/concentration.
- Certificate programs (without a directly related Associate’s program) must
have at least two learning outcomes.
- Certificate of Achievement programs must have at least one learning outcome.
To view a more detailed description of these criteria, click here.
The Assessment Process is Cyclical
- Provide students with learning opportunities consistent
with pre-determined outcomes.
- Assess student learning outcomes based on faculty
determined criteria and interpret the implications.
- Modify the pedagogical approach or curriculum based on the
assessment analysis.