Assessment at FSCC involves improving student learning through systematic collection of data and using that data to make informed curricular changes. The main objective of assessment is to improve the overall educational experience based on the evidence resulting from comprehensive data collection.
Assessment at FSCC focuses on evaluation of student learning outcomes at the following levels:
- Institutional (ILO)
- Degree Outcomes
- General Education Learning Outcomes (GELO)
- Program Learning Outcomes
- Course
- Co-curricular
Institutional Learning Outcomes: Institutional outcomes include the knowledge, skills, and aptitudes students acquire as a result of their experience at FSCC. Institutional outcomes represent a broad range of competence which applies to students in every program. This includes certificate, transfer, or degree programs, and are a reflection of FSCC’s mission and core values. These outcomes extend to co-curricular and non-curricular experiences as well. FSCC has identified two Institutional outcomes:
- Academic Success: Be in good standing by meeting institutional expectations and making academic progress towards earning their credentials.
- Social Responsibility: Prepare students for civic and community engagement, including social and cultural awareness, inclusion, and citizenship for the betterment of the community.
Institutional Outcome Assessment Report
Degree Outcomes
General Education Learning Outcomes: Through general education curriculum, students gain understanding of various concepts and practices that serve as a foundation for continuous learning and achievement of personal goals. The general education curriculum provides students competency in academic skills by integrating a range of courses from multiple disciplines. All associate degrees at FSCC require some general education curriculum, however, general education assessment is integrated into Associate in Science, Associate in Arts, Associate in General Studies and Associate in Applied Technology degrees. FSCC has outlined four general education outcomes based on the skills students are expected to demonstrate upon completion of general education curriculum.
- Mathematical Skills: Students will employ scientific and mathematical principles within the program disciplines.
- Communication Skills: Students will demonstrate effective communication skills.
- Technology Skills: Students will demonstrate effective use of technology.
- Critical Thinking Skills: Students will apply critical thinking skills to evaluate possible resolutions to a given scenario.
General Education Assessment Report
Program Learning Outcomes
Program outcomes assess a specific set of skills or abilities students will possess upon completing a certificate or Associate in Applied Science degree program. All program learning outcomes are listed on the website to provide transparency to prospective students and employers. Program learning outcomes are drafted by the program coordinators with the assistance from their advisory committee members.
Course Learning Outcomes
Course learning outcomes/objectives are identified based on the specific skills the students will master after they successfully complete a course. Course learning outcomes are listed on the syllabus and were establish by content area faculty. All course outcomes have been approved by the FSCC Curriculum Committee or the Kansas Core Outcomes Group (KCOG), established by the Kansas Board of Regents (KBOR). Changes to the course outcomes must be approved by either the FSCC curriculum committee or the content-specific KCOG faculty committee, whichever is applicable.
Co-Curricular
Co-curricular experience is learning outside of the curriculum. FSCC students have the opportunity to participate in a variety of co-curricular activities that are offered by both academic and non-academic departments on campus. Co-curricular programs are guided by three overarching objectives: Academic Support, Campus & Community Engagement, and Personal Growth & Leadership. Each co-curricular program identified has developed student-oriented outcomes that will help achieve these objectives. Some of the co-curricular programs directly assist students with their academic work, while others give them a chance to learn valuable life skills. Under these programs, not every event is evaluated; instead, the emphasis is on those that reflect the mission of the college and are aligned with institutional outcomes.
“The FSCC co-curricular experience is learning that supports the academic curriculum. The experience includes but is not limited to involvement in activities, programs, and/or engagement in service learning through mutually supportive relationships of the college and community.”
Co-Curricular Programs/Activities:
- Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society
- Library
- Advising
- TRIO
- Student Success Center