Appendix C20

Middle States Outcomes Assessment 1999

Department or Program: Political Science

Goals

1. Develop knowledge of the field

2. Understand key concepts and terms of the discipline

3. Develop research skills

4. Write clearly

5. Think critically

G.C.P. Correlation

1. Writing: Goal 4 reiterates G.C.P. goal

2. Reflexive thinking: Goal 5 reiterates G.C.P. goal

3. Socio-ethical analysis is inherent in the discipline

Means of Assessment

1. Interviews with outgoing seniors

2. Maintain portfolios

3. Administer "Major Field Test" approved by the ETS

4. Contact alumni through a biennial newsletter Outcomes

Outcome

Assessment in the Department was begun formally in 1998. Analysis of the Department's methods is thus inconclusive and will require time to develop perspectives. Anecdotal evidence from a 1989 alumni survey suggests that graduates have been successful in gaining entrance to graduate schools and in finding meaningful employment

Uses

Pending analysis of assessment tools