Streamlining and integration of Miami three-tier outcomes assessment for sustainability

Among the challenges associated with implementing an outcomes assessment approach is the institutionalization of a data collection scheme. An assessment methodology that lacks scalability makes it difficult to reasonably collect data on a regular basis. In addition, if the methodology is not integrated with familiar processes, adoption and “faculty buy-in” becomes difficult. Each of these properties (e.g., scalability and integration) addresses a larger concern, namely sustainability. This paper describes a streamlined process for outcomes assessment that is integrated into a course management system. The process involves the use of a three-tier assessment model currently in place at Miami University and supports both indirect and direct assessment through instruments such as surveys, rubrics, and blogging journals.