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University Assessment Services

Use of Results

Assessment is a form of action research. The main purpose of assessment is to use results in decision-making. If assessment results are not used to inform decision-making, then assessment can be a waste of time and resources.

There are many ways to demonstrate how assessment information is used for decision-making and program improvement. These may include:

  • An annual retreat where program assessment results are discussed.
  • Curriculum committee meetings.
  • Annual reports and planning documents.
  • Agenda items about survey results discussed at department or program level meetings. 

Addressing Unexpected Results

Since assessment is about improvement, it would be surprising if a program did not discover results that are interpreted as unexpected or disappointing. The keys are to articulate how the program will use the results for improvement.

The assessment of learning outcomes in higher education should not be tied to the evaluation of individual teaching performance. There are too many factors outside of an instructor's control to solely attribute what is taught to what is learned. Thus, in nearly all cases, it is inappropriate to evaluate teaching based solely on learning outcomes.