CORP-SAPA0010 - Assessment Essentials for Student Affairs Professionals

Course Description

Course Outline

Day 1: Introduction and Theoretical Foundations (4 hours)

• Introduction to Assessment in Student Affairs
  • Overview of assessment
  • Importance of assessment in student affairs
• Theories and Principles of Assessment
  • Historical perspectives
  • Key theories 
  •  Assessment knowledge systems and paradigms

Day 2: Frameworks and Strategic Alignment (4 hours)

• Assessment Frameworks and Models
  • Overview of frameworks (e.g., CAS Standards, ACPA/NASPA and CACUSS Competency Areas)
  • Assessment models (e.g., Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels, Logic Models)
• Strategic Alignment of Assessment
  • Aligning assessment with institutional mission and goals
  • Developing learning outcomes and objectives
  • Integrating assessment into strategic planning
  • Intro to Implementation Science (project-based learning)

Day 3: The Assessment Process (4 hours)

• Key terms and concepts: assessment, evaluation, measurement, and research
• Types of assessment (formative, summative, direct vs. indirect)
• Understanding different assessment tools

Day 4: Learning Outcomes (4 hours)

• Understand the Importance of Learning Outcomes
• Differentiate Between Goals, Objectives, and Learning Outcomes
• Developing Measurable Learning Outcomes
• Aligning Learning Outcomes with Institutional Goals

Day 5: Equity and Inclusion in Assessment (4 hours)

• Understanding Equity and Inclusion in Assessment
  • Understanding equity and inclusion in the context of assessment
  • Identifying and addressing biases in assessment practices
  • Strategies for inclusive data collection and analysis

Assessment Methods:

• Weekly quizzes and reflections
• Group projects and presentations
• Final assessment plan project

What You Will Learn

Some common learning outcomes that students might expect to achieve: 

• Understanding of Assessment Principles: Students will gain a comprehensive understanding of assessment theories, principles, and frameworks relevant to student affairs, including the importance of alignment with institutional missions and goals. 
• Research Methodologies: Students will learn about various research methodologies and data collection techniques commonly used in student affairs assessment, such as surveys, focus groups, interviews, and document analysis. 
• Data Analysis Skills: Students will develop proficiency in analyzing assessment data using both quantitative and qualitative methods, including statistical analysis, coding, and thematic analysis. 
• Program Evaluation: Students will acquire the skills necessary to design and conduct program evaluations, including establishing evaluation criteria, developing assessment instruments, and interpreting evaluation results. 
• Ethical Considerations: Students will explore ethical considerations related to assessment in student affairs, including issues of confidentiality, privacy, bias, and fairness. 
• Effective Communication of Assessment Results: Students will learn how to effectively communicate assessment findings to various stakeholders, including administrators, faculty, staff, students, and external partners, using clear and compelling formats and language. 
• Utilization of Assessment Results: Students will understand how to use assessment results to inform decision-making, improve programs and services, and enhance student learning and development. 
• Leadership and Collaboration: Students will develop leadership and collaboration skills necessary for engaging partners in the assessment process, fostering a culture of assessment within their institutions, and leading assessment initiatives. 

Recommended For

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

• Student Affairs Program Assessment Certificate : Cohort Based Option