A Formative Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes
"Sure, the students like your programs and services, but what evidence do you have that what you are doing is making a difference?"
~ Terenzini and Upcraft, p.217
This quote by P. T. Terenzini and M.L. Upcraft illustrates why Longwood's Division of Student Affairs uses learning as a critical feedback mechanism. Each department engages in a 7-step Learning Plan process to:
define our philosophy toward learning
incorporate Longwood's six student development goals
outline desired learning outcomes
design activities and interactions that encourage achievement of the learning outcomes
assess whether or not the learning occurred
examine the results
plan future actions based on the results.
Learning Plans and their outcomes also serve to provide evidence of what should be done to improve delivery and to modify planning.