To ensure that all staff are using best practices for conducting assessments and communicating results effectively, the Undergraduate College (UC) formed the UC Assessment Team, a network of staff representatives from across the portfolio to:
- Facilitate clear communications regarding assessment activities and expectations across the portfolio;
- Establish unit and program assessment practices and processes as it related to program, portfolio, and institutional needs; and
- Share best-practices in assessment across the portfolio.
Please see the list of standards and procedures below that all Undergraduate College units and programs are encouraged to follow.
Assessment Planning and Reporting
1. All units have an assessment plan that includes the goals supported by the respective programs, measurable outcomes and program objectives, and any additional assessment-related activities that are unique or specific to the unit’s initiatives. Though not required, a best practice is to create a logic model that outlines the key elements of the unit’s goals and assessment plan. Assessment resources including forms and templates may be accessed via Box.
Please report any changes to program assessment plans or logic models to the Assessment Office.
University-wide assessment is guided by the Office of the Executive Vice President and Provost. Undergraduate College, unit and program-level assessment calendars align with the university-wide schedule, whenever possible. The UC also supports and conducts assessments that contribute to the 2018-2023 Quality Enhancement Plan, accreditation reporting (SACSCOC), and state reporting (THECB).
2. Annual program assessment plans and reports for institutional accreditation purposes are created in collaboration with appropriate unit and program leaders and staff, and are submitted to institutional leadership according to the university deadlines and requirements. Learn more about institutional requirements here.
3. Staff use standardized best practices for collecting, analyzing, and reporting assessment data and results. This includes assessment data and results that will be publicly presented, published, or used to determine program impact or changes.
Assessment reports document assessment activities and progress toward outcomes and program objectives. These reports present findings from single assessments as well as longitudinal initiatives.
Please submit a Project Request Form for assistance. Projects are handled on a case-by-case basis.
Assessment Management
4. Staff who have primary responsibility for the unit or program are engaged in assessment planning, implementation, analysis, and decision-making.
5. All units and programs must have a process in place to ensure that assessment plans are implemented and results are accurately documented in a timely manner.
6. Staff follow standardized procedures for developing and administering assessments. The following materials should be reviewed or approved (on a case-by-case basis) by the Assessment Office before they are administered or submitted to intended stakeholders for purposes related to measuring program outcomes, conducting program assessment, or research:
- Surveys administered to students.
- Focus group or interview protocols.
- IRB applications and materials.
To request assistance or schedule a review of assessment materials please submit a Project Request Form.
7. All assessment efforts must follow FERPA and university policies and guidelines to protect the privacy of participants involved in assessment or research initiatives. Learn more. about these requirements.
8. Undergraduate College leadership identifies staff who are representative of the units and programs across the portfolio to serve on the UC Assessment Team. Responsibilities of UC Assessment Team members include:
- Attending Assessment Team meetings and events.
- Communicating with their respective units and programs.
- Coordinating and facilitating assessment activities, processes.
- Assessment reporting for their respective units and areas.
UC Assessment Team members also share best practices for assessment within the portfolio.
Training and Professional Development
9. Staff engaged in assessment planning, implementation, analysis, and decision-making are encouraged to develop their assessment-related knowledge, skills, and abilities. The Assessment Office provides professional development trainings, workshops, consultations, and other resources to promote the use of best practices. Visit the calendar for upcoming events and activities or contact the Assessment Office. to request a consultation.
Contact Us
For questions, contact the Assessment Office.
To request support on a project or initiative, please submit a Project Request Form. Projects are handled on a case-by-case basis.