Faculty, staff, and administrators at UNI want to know what students are learning, how well they are learning it, and what kinds of experiences—both inside and outside of the classroom—add to student learning.
For example, studies have shown that employers look for strong oral and written communication skills, ability to think critically and to work as part of a team, experience with diversity, as well as initiative, flexibility, and a well-developed work ethic, to name a few qualities they seek. UNI wants to make sure that graduates not only know the content in their academic field, but have the qualities required for success in their work, their communities, and their personal lives.
Some specific questions about students that assessment processes can answer include ones like these: How well can students write, speak, solve problems and use information sources, and what are the best ways to teach these skills? What kinds of internships and other hands-on experiences do students get and how satisfied are employers with their work? What kinds of international experiences are available and how do students benefit from them? What other services and programs are being offered and how satisfied are students with what they gain from them? What kinds of relationships do students have with faculty and staff? The lists could go on and on!