Course Evaluation

Course evaluation at CUE is grounded in the measurement of student achievement of Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), using a combination of direct and indirect measures. The direct measure involves faculty analyzing a sample of student work to identify collective strengths and weaknesses across the cohort, assessed through analytical rubrics rather than grades alone. This distinction is deliberate — grades are considered too broad to reveal specific competency gaps, whereas rubric-based assessment provides precise, actionable data on what students have and have not mastered. The indirect measure complements this through student surveys or focus group discussions centered on how well students feel they have achieved the PLOs, what aspects of their education supported their learning, and what the department could do differently to improve outcomes.

Rather than evaluating all courses every year, CUE employs a staggered three-year assessment cycle in which each department assesses two to three PLOs annually, ensuring full coverage of all outcomes within the cycle without overburdening faculty. Data is collected during the final examination period each May and June, reviewed collectively on a designated Assessment Day, and used to drive evidence-informed action in one of three areas: refining assessment tools and rubrics, adjusting the learning environment through curricular or structural changes, or implementing direct pedagogical improvements. External input from Advisory Boards is incorporated into this process, providing an independent perspective on program quality. The findings are then documented, responsibilities assigned, and outcomes tracked into the following cycle to close the loop.