Chapter Seven: Plan For Continuous Improvement

The student learning outcome/performance objective has been specified. The performance indicator (benchmark) for measuring success has been set. The cycle of data collection has passed and the actual outcomes/objectives have been measured against the performance indicator. Assessment requires one more step to close the loop.

Possibly the most important step is using the collected data and the results of assessment to plan for continuous improvement. Assessment is not a perfect science, so don’t be discouraged if the results of your outcomes/objectives assessment fall below the performance indicators you have set. If you continually monitor your assessment plan, you can make notes along the way on how to improve your assessment approach.

How to Use Assessment Data

• Focus on the Assessment Process rather than the results of the process – Make recommendations for ways to improve processes within the program. Faculty may consider trying new teaching strategies, revising curriculum, or increasing student support.
• Make Informed Decisions – Use the findings to support planning and budgetary decisions or to supplement existing program review processes.
• Share the Good News – Communicate findings with other campus programs or stakeholders.
• Plan for Next Year – Use the findings to create goals and objectives for the upcoming year.
• Improve Future Assessment – Consider ways to improve the assessment process (reflect upon the tools, target group, timing, objectives, etc.)