Purpose

The purpose of the Student Academic Assessment Process is to promote continued excellence in teaching and learning by assessing the effectiveness of instruction and services and determining the scope of competence for student learning outcomes (abilities).

Mission Statement

We will enhance student success through the integration of student abilities into programs and curriculum, through creative and practical assessment of academic achievement, and through the continuous improvement of teaching and learning.

Structure

The assessment program is directed by the Student Academic Achievement Committee (SAAC) whose primary membership consists of interested residential and adjunct faculty. The assessment program is organized into nine areas according to the academic divisions: Center for Teaching & Learning, Counseling, Developmental Education, Information Resources, Instructional Computing, Liberal Arts, Occupational Education, Science & Mathematics, and Southwest Skill Center.

District Statement on Assessment

The purpose of assessment in the Maricopa Community Colleges is to improve student learning and enhance teaching. It is owned and driven by faculty, supported by administration, and directed by individual colleges. Assessment is characterized by the following:

• Involves multiple methods of measurement
• Ensures an ongoing, sustainable process of review
• Contributes to curriculum, budget, and planning processes
• Is addressed on various levels (i.e., course, program, institutional).

(Prepared by the District Student Academic Achievement Assessment Committee {DSAAAC}—October 2002)

Higher Learning Commission Statement on Assessment

Assessment strategies should:

• Include explicit public statements regarding the knowledge, skills, competencies students should possess as a result of completing course and program requirements
• Document the values, attitudes, and behaviors faculty expect students to have developed
• Be integrated into program review, planning, and budgeting (department and organization)

(As presented by Diane Nyhammer, Assistant Director for Accreditation Services {HLC/NCA}—December 2003)