Developing a Plan for the Assessment of Student Learning (ASL)
An Assessment of Student Learning (ASL) Plan provides a framework for evaluating student achievement and using assessment results to improve programs. Effective assessment begins with clearly defined learning outcomes and a plan for collecting and using evidence of student learning.
Step 1: Define Program Learning Outcomes
Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs) describe the knowledge, skills, and dispositions students are expected to demonstrate upon completion of a program.
Programs should establish measurable outcomes appropriate to each degree level, including:
- Certificate
- Associate
- Bachelor
- Master
- Doctoral
Because assessment planning is built upon these outcomes, SLOs should focus on the most important learning expectations of the program and be written in measurable terms.
Align Outcomes Across the Institution
Program-level learning outcomes should align with:
- University learning outcomes
- College or school learning outcomes
- The university mission and educational goals
This alignment helps ensure a cohesive learning experience and demonstrates how programs contribute to broader institutional objectives.
Student Services Learning Outcomes
Student service units should identify learning outcomes for students who participate in programs, services, workshops, or educational activities. When appropriate, these outcomes may align with university, college, or academic program learning outcomes.
Step 2: Develop a Curriculum and Assessment Matrix
Once learning outcomes have been established, programs should create a Curriculum/Assessment Matrix that maps outcomes to required courses and learning experiences.
A curriculum matrix helps programs:
- Identify where learning outcomes are introduced, reinforced, and assessed
- Ensure students have opportunities to develop key competencies throughout the curriculum
- Support assessment planning and data collection efforts
Step 3: Design the Assessment Plan
Assessment plans should provide meaningful information that can be used to improve student learning and demonstrate program effectiveness.
An effective assessment plan should:
- Identify Assessment Methods: Determine the instruments, assignments, projects, exams, or other measures that will be used to evaluate student achievement.
- Establish a Data Collection Timeline: Define when assessment data will be collected and who is responsible for gathering and reviewing results.
- Plan for Reporting and Use of Results: Identify how findings will be shared with faculty, administrators, and other stakeholders, and how results will be used to support decision making and continuous improvement.
- Implement and Refine: Assessment is an ongoing process. Programs should periodically review assessment methods and make adjustments as needed to ensure meaningful and useful results.
Step 4: Use Results for Continuous Improvement
Once approved by the Program and College Academic Planning Councils and the Assessment department, assessment plans should be implemented and reviewed annually.
Assessment results should be used to:
- Improve curriculum and instruction
- Refine student learning outcomes
- Enhance assessment methods
- Support accreditation and accountability requirements
The ultimate purpose of assessment is improvement. By embedding assessment within academic programs, faculty can engage in meaningful conversations about student learning and make informed decisions that enhance educational quality.
Partner with the Assessment Team
The Office of Assessment provides guidance and support throughout the assessment planning process, from developing student learning outcomes to interpreting assessment results and identifying opportunities for improvement.
Contact the division of Assessment at assessment@ksu.edu for assistance with developing or revising your ASL Plan.