Assessment of Student Learning

The reporting of the assessment of student learning is done in Watermark's Planning and Self-Study software, which remains open to departments and programs throughout the year.  Academic programs include both undergraduate and graduate, including major and certificates.  The assessment of student learning at Buffalo State is organized by developing these 5 steps: 

Student Learning Outcomes

A set of statements that clearly describe what students should be able to do, know or produce as a result of completing the program.  These should draw on verbs from Blooms Taxonomy (see College Senate Curriculum Committee page for current Blooms).

Curriculum Map

A map showing the point at which each SLO is introduced, reinforced and mastered in the curriculum. 

Measures and Criteria

Methods by which to gauge the degree to which the program is successfully achieving its SLOs.  Measures typically summarize the percentage of students who 1) fail to meet expectations, 2) approach expectations, 3) meet expectations and 4) exceed expectations. 

Results and Interpretation

Analysis and reflection on data that have been gathered and how the results inform the success of the program. 

Actions and Follow-Up

Data-informed decisions to implement (or not implement) changes to the program.