Assurance of Learning Terms

  • assessment - the continuous and systemic process of analyzing student learning to improve accountability and effectiveness
     
  • benchmark - a standard used to measure performance
     
  • course-embedded assessment - assessment measures that take place within a single course
     
  • direct measure - examination of student learning as students respond to the instrument itself (e.g. tests, essays, presentations, etc.)
     
  • goal - statement of what a program would like to accomplish over a given amount of time
     
  • indirect measure - assessment method that gathers information by asking students to reflect on their learning, rather than demonstrate it (e.g. surveys, interviews, etc.)
     
  • instrument - implement used to take assessments
     
  • learning objective - statement of intended student outcomes following instruction
     
  • measure - to collect data in an assessment
     
  • pilot - first run of a new assessment or measure
     
  • proficiency - degree of competency achieved by assessment results
     
  • recommendation - proposal for improving programs, courses, measures, etc., following the analyzing of assessment results
     
  • rubric - device used to evaluate a piece of work based on specific criteria
     
  • stakeholder - an individual or organization that has a vested interest in a program
     
  • standard - predetermined expectation of the performance of a course or program


Compiled by MTSU Jones College of Business 

Jones College logo

What is

formative assessment


and how can it
help you?

Click here to read more!