How to Meet SACS Requirements and

Other Accreditation Information

Plan to Bring FAU Assessment Process into Compliance

with SACS’s Comprehensive Standards 3.3.1:

  The institution identifies expected outcomes [in academic programs
and student learning outcomes], assesses the extent to which it
achieves the outcomes, and provides evidence of improvement based on
analysis of the results 

1. Each educational degree program, undergraduate and graduate, needs to review the program's expected student learning outcomes (what students are expected to know, what students are expected to be able to do, what technical skills students are expected to have) when they complete the degree or academic program. ALC should be reaffirmed or revised based upon the department's review of the expected student learning outcomes. Are the ALCs posted for this baccalaureate program still relevant to the goals and intended core learning outcomes of this program? Does each graduate program have clear and current goals and intended learning outcomes?



2. Each degree program needs to review and report on the specific embedded processes that are in place that facilitate regular faculty review of assessment processed and productions in each academic department.



3. Each department needs to define specific learning opportunities for the program's expected and make sure that assessments are aligned with the specific student learning outcomes. Are there formative (during the program which permit modifications to improve student learning and the achievement of core program outcomes) assessments as well as summative (final) assessments identified?



4. Each department needs to review the intended core student learning outcomes that are posted and the specific assessments assigned to them in order to evaluate whether they truly demonstrate discipline area competence on the part of program graduates? Are the assessments a valid method for determining the graduates' competence in the discipline?



5. Each degree program needs to identify how assessment data results will be used to implement program improvements. What department process will be used to identify improvement opportunities based upon assessment results? How will the department consider questions such as: are there modifications which could improve learning opportunities related to core outcomes? are there changes in teaching process that might enhance learning outcomes (e.g., use of more class time for small groups to solve mathematical problems together while being assisted by the faculty member as opposed to lecture format).



6. Each program should report on how faculty teaching relevant courses will systematically review assessment results and consider how to use the results for continuous improvement in student learning outcomes, classroom strategies, or even assessment methodologies and program goals. Have all faculty members involved in developing and/or teaching in this program participated in the review of and any needed revisions to the ALCs, program student learning outcomes and related assessments?