Student Learning Assessment at FSU

The Middle States Commission on Higher Education, FSU's regional accreditation agency, describes the concept of student learning assessment:

"Assessment of student learning demonstrates that, at graduation or other appropriate points, the institution's students have knowledge, skills, and competencies consistent with institutional and appropriate higher education goals" - Characteristics of Excellence. 2006. Middle States Commission on Higher Education

Impetus for Change

In 2006, a Middle States Evaluation Team conducted a campus visit and affirmed that Frostburg State University continues to meet the eligibility requirements for accreditation. The visiting team made four recommendations that must be addressed in the 2011 Middle States Periodic Report. One of these recommendations is tied to student learning assessment:

Standard 14: Assessment of Student Learning. Frostburg should move quickly to implement all components of its proposed student learning assessment plan. This effort requires addressing the unevenness in assessment within the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, full implementation of the proposed General Education assessment plan, and evidence that results from the student learning outcomes assessments are used in the decision-making process.

In 2008, the Office of Planning & Assessment was formed with the merging of Information Services and Institutional Effectiveness. This office oversees and assists the student learning assessment functions at FSU.

Assessment in the Strategic Planning Process

In its Intermediate Strategic Plan (to be finalized in summer 2009), Frostburg State University demonstrates commitment to assessment as part of the teaching and learning process:

Core Value #6: "Frostburg State University values responsibility: a comprehensive accountability system through clear standards for teaching, learning, and working with outcomes assessment for greater individual and institutional effectiveness"

Master Goal #9: "Develop, implement, and maintain a comprehensive system of assessment for all institutional functions".

Strategic Direction #16: "FSU assesses all of its programs and activities utilizing the best institutional effectiveness practices".

Middle States Resources on Assessment and Accreditation

Assessing Student Learning and Institutional Effectiveness - This guide helps in developing an understanding of Middle States' expectations pertaining to Standard 7 (Institutional Assessment) and Standard 14 (Assessment of Student Learning).

Student Learning Assessment: Options and Resources - This handbook serves as a resource for institutions seeking a bridge between the Commission's standards for accreditation and the practical daily challenges of assessment and continuous improvement.