Assessment Levels

Assessment Levels Teaching and learning effectiveness in higher education can be measured at several levels, including at the institution, program/department, course, class, and individual student levels.

The purpose of each assessment level and its relationship to each other should be understood by faculty members in order to develop a culture of continuous improvement and meet accreditation requirements. Click on each level below to find out more about it.

Student-level assessment assesses how well individual students have achieved course learning goals through tests, quizzes, assignments and the like. Its primary purpose is to give students feedback and grades on their learning.

Class-level assessment assesses how well an entire course section or class of students has achieved course learning goals. Its primary purpose is to enable the faculty member to reflect on and improve student learning in that class and/or in subsequent offerings of the same class.

Course-level assessment assesses how well an entire course section or class of students has achieved course learning goals. Its primary purpose is to enable the faculty member to reflect on and improve student learning in that class and/or in subsequent offerings of the same class.

Program-level assessment measures how well students have achieved learning goals within a program. Its aim is to measure student learning within specific degree-granting programs, identify areas for improvement, and provide evidence of exemplary programs.

Institutional level assessment measures student learning and performance of core abilities across all degree programs and campuses. Its primary purpose is to measure how well an institution is meeting its goals and missions and inform meaningful decision-making about how to improve its programs and services to support student success.

College/School-Level Assessment evaluates the attainment of learning objectives tailored to each college or school. Its purpose is to empower faculty and administrators to analyze and enhance student learning within their respective college or school, ensuring congruence with their goals and fostering continuous improvements in educational offerings and support services.