At Chesapeake College, academic assessment is the process of systematically gathering information about student learning to inform decisions that enhance educational outcomes. Guided by clear goals, evidence collection, and data-driven action, assessment helps ensure that our students achieve the skills and knowledge we set out for them.

What is Assessment?

“Assessment is the systematic collection of information about student learning, using the time, knowledge, expertise, and resources available, in order to inform decisions that affect student learning.” (Walvoord, 2010, p. 2).

Academic assessment at Chesapeake College is built on three core steps:

  • Setting Goals: Defining clear learning outcomes that detail what students should be able to achieve after completing a course or program.
  • Gathering Information: Collecting data to measure how effectively students are meeting these learning goals and identifying factors that impact their learning.
  • Taking Action: Using the collected data to inform instructional improvements, course revisions, and enhanced student support, all with the goal of improving learning outcomes.

 

Guiding Principles and Good Practices of Assessment

1) Assessments should be varied and include formal and informal evaluations.

  • Provide formative and summative assessments
  • Provide quality feedback information (timely grading/responses;   video/online responses)
  • Encourage peer and instructor dialog (podcasts/discussion boards/ videos / online chats)

2) Assessments measure the level of student success, and measure students’ attainment of learning outcomes.

  • There should be a connection between the way students learn material and the way they are tested on it.
  • Facilitate student self-assessment (journals, essays)

3) Students should know the evaluation plan at the beginning of a course.

  • Clarify what good performance is (usually through the use of rubrics)

4) Assessments should include ways to encourage self-esteem and provide opportunities to close the gap

  • Instructors give positive responses to discussions and class participation / instructor explanation/intervention of current performance and how to act to close the gap from current performance to good performance)
  • Use feedback to improve teaching (instructor sharing / division meetings/ SLOA analysis
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Explore Academic Assessment Areas

Curricula Effectiveness

Our course, program, and General Education (GenEd) assessments evaluate the effectiveness of curricula in achieving student learning outcomes. These assessments ensure continuous improvement in course design, instruction, and student success.

Course, Program & GenEd

APC Committee

The Academic Assessment Committee (APC) leads the college’s efforts in implementing a consistent, evidence-based cycle of continuous improvement. The APC ensures alignment with Chesapeake’s mission and values by fostering a culture of assessment-driven decision-making.

Academic Assessment Committee

Assessment Reports

The assessment reports compile data on student performance and outcomes, helping faculty and administration understand trends and areas for enhancement across the college.

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Assessment Reports