Study Abroad Outcomes Assessment

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to provide an overview of the literature relevant to outcomes assessment as it pertains to community college study abroad and to provide a case study of Kirkwood Community College's recent project developing institution-specific study abroad learning outcomes. The subsequent outcomes assessment conducted will be discussed along with conclusions from the process and the data gathered. This case study will illustrate how one community college developed student learning outcomes specific to its environment and a unique “home-grown” assessment model for assessing those outcomes comprehensively across all programs. The ability to engage in dialogue at all levels of the institution and speak the language of assessment has provided opportunities for unique improvements and the furthering of global learning goals.