Academic Program Assessment Reporting

In each of its academic programs, the University of South Alabama (USA) identifies expected student learning outcomes, assesses the extent to which those outcomes are achieved, and provides evidence of seeking improvement based on the analysis of assessment results.

At USA, the institutional assessment process is overseen by the Office of Institutional Effectiveness (OIE). In addition, representatives from each college and school serve on the University Assessment Advisory Committee (UAAC) and act as assessment liaisons for communicating assessment expectations, deadlines, and updates.

Assessment Handbook

The assessment handbook is a comprehensive guide to the assessment process at the University of South Alabama. It provides detailed information and guidance on best practices for measuring and improving student learning outcomes, as well as tools and templates for the components of an assessment report, data collection, and analysis. The handbook is designed to support faculty, staff, and administrators in their efforts to ensure the quality and effectiveness of our academic programs, administrative units, and student support services.

Assessment Handbook

Process

Annually, faculty teaching in educational programs are expected to document how assessment data are being used to seek improvement in student learning. These annual assessment reports are submitted electronically by each academic program using Watermark Planning & Self-Study software.

OIE conducts two reviews annually. The first review occurs immediately after the assessment due date focusing on compliance with institutional reporting expectations. The second review involves a more thorough examination of the quality of the assessment plan, including outcomes, methods, criteria, assessment results, and use of results.

If you have questions or would like assistance, please email assessment@southalabama.edu.

Dates & Deadlines

	October Third Thursday: Prior Year Assessment Reports and Current Year Assessment Plans Due
	January Second Week: Feedback provided to Academic Programs
	February Third Thursday: Corrected report submissions due
	March As part of the transparency measures, the assessment reports will be published for public access, providing aggregated data and findings to ensure openness and accountability.