Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons^™

Best Practices For Student Learning Assessment In Smaller-Sized Undergraduate Mass Communication Programs, Douglas J. Swanson Ed.D Apr

Douglas J. Swanson, Ed.D APR

Assessment of student learning in higher education is no longer optional, because the public increasingly expects universities to spend less and produce more. Generating detailed, meaningful assessment is challenging, particularly for smaller-sized mass communication programs with limited resources. Mass communication-focused assessment literature is scarce. This best practices essay reviews other research to illustrate proven examples of ways to assess simply and effectively in undergraduate mass communication programs to achieve maximum faculty support and curriculum improvement.

Student Learning In High-Impact Practice Mass Communication Courses, Douglas J. Swanson Ed.D Apr

Douglas J. Swanson, Ed.D APR

College and university high-impact practice (HIP) courses involve students in intensive values-focused learning inside and/ or outside of the traditional classroom environment. Much research has documented that participation in HIPs increases student retention and graduation rates. At the same time, the nontraditional learning structure of an HIP course can complicate a thorough assessment of student learning. Anecdotal evidence reflects strong involvement in HIPs by mass communication programs, although communication efforts in this regard are not as well documented in the literature as efforts in other fields. This essay briefly defines HIPs and presents an appropriate theory that would guide HIPs …

Foreign Language Assessments And Interpretive Communication: A Literacy-Based Perspective, Kate Paesani

Kate Paesani

This presentation proposes a reconceptualization of interpretive communication through the lens of foreign language (FL) literacy and the multiliteracies framework. The communicative modes and multiliteracies frameworks are similar because they suggest curricular goals for FL programs grounded in cultural content and adopt a broad understanding of communication in which language modalities are overlapping. They differ because the multiliteracies framework additionally outlines a pedagogical approach that puts into practice goals, content, and communication and foregrounds texts as the core content of FL courses. Indeed, the literacy-based learning processes of interpretation, collaboration, problem solving, and reflection expand our understanding of how learners …

Contesting Hydrofracking During An Inter-Governmental Hearing: Accounting By Reworking Or Challenging The Question, Richard Buttny

Richard Buttny

No abstract provided.

Aligning Goals, Objectives, And Assessments: A Multiliteracies Perspective, Kate Paesani, Heather Willis Allen

Kate Paesani

In this session, we show how goals, objectives, and assessments in introductory foreign language (FL) programs can be articulated to reflect principles of the multiliteracies framework. Using the backward design model, we consider how to create instructional goals that reflect linguistic, cognitive, and sociocultural dimensions of literacy and how to align objectives with principles of interpretation, collaboration, problem solving, and reflection. We further argue that to effectively measure objectives, assessments should view language and literacy broadly, be multidimensional, and link clearly to teaching and learning. This literacy-based approach thus represents a shift away from the emphasis on acquisition of language …

Using Social Media In The Classroom: Assessment Of Its Effectiveness., Jennifer Wright

Jennifer Wright Joe

Social media can be an effective tool in promoting critical thinking and collaboration in library instruction. Whether it is simple polls or a much more collaborative event, these methods engage students and allow them to interact with material, professors, and other students in an organized fashion that might not be feasible without the use of technology. However, many faculty members are quick to incorporate these new learning tools without regard to their effectiveness. In this session, several applications of social media will be presented and their effectiveness will be discussed. Then, to conclude, the participants will discuss the best way …

The Diffusion Of Geospatial Technologies Among Louisiana Assessors, Craig A. Johnson

Craig A Johnson

The Diffusion of Geospatial Technologies among Louisiana Assessors The diffusion of geospatial technologies, including Geographic Information Systems and Computer Aided Mass Appraisal Systems, among Louisiana Assessors has been slowed by limited resources, a lack of communication and slow innovation decision processes. This theory supports the theories and research on the diffusion of innovation developed by Dr. Everett M. Rogers in his book entitled the Diffusion of Innovations. The data collected from several online surveys of Louisiana Assessors between 2007 and 2013 was compared to identify factors that spurred or impeded the adoption of geospatial technologies among assessment offices.

An Assessment Of Waste Management Activities Of Plateau Environmental Protection And Sanitation Agency, N L. Binbol Phd, F Ogboji, A A. Lahor

Confluence Journal Environmental Studies (CJES), Kogi State University, Nigeria

The research examined the performance of Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) as a waste management agency on the Jos Plateau. The research made use of primary data in the form of structured questionnaires to elucidate required information from respondents. Four wards Naraguta B, Jenta Adamu, Jenta Apata and Tudun Wada Kabong were used as sampling points. The research made used of both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques for data analysis. Results obtain shows that 88% of wastes generated were domestic in nature and that the commonest methods of refuse disposals are the open space (33%) and back yard …

An Assessment Of Waste Management Activities Of Plateau Environmental Protection And Sanitation Agency, Cjes Department Of Geography And Planning Kogi State University Anyigba

Confluence Journal Environmental Studies (CJES), Kogi State University, Nigeria

The research examined the performance of Plateau Environmental Protection and Sanitation Agency (PEPSA) as a waste management agency on the Jos Plateau. The research made use of primary data in the form of structured questionnaires to elucidate required information from respondents. Four wards Naraguta B, Jenta Adamu, Jenta Apata and Tudun Wada Kabong were used as sampling points. The research made used of both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques for data analysis. Results obtain shows that 88% of wastes generated were domestic in nature and that the commonest methods of refuse disposals are the open space (33%) and back yard …

Assessment Practices In The Post-Communicative Era: A Multiliteracies Perspective, Heather Willis Allen, Beatrice Dupuy, Kate Paesani

Kate Paesani

Although numerous integrated approaches to foreign language teaching and learning have emerged during the “post-communicative era,” assessment practices have not kept pace with changes reflected within these approaches. Assessment practices often remain form-focused, oriented toward isolated language competencies, and devoid of focus on expression or interpretation of meaning. Yet, as Kern (2000) stated, “what is evaluated constitutes the de facto curriculum and how it is evaluated reflects the de facto philosophy of learning and teaching” (p. 267). In other words, when assessment practices focus on forms and isolated skills while lacking a focus on meaningful communication, instructors see mastery of …

“I’Ve Got The Data, Now What?:” Making Sense Of Assessment Data, Larry D. Long

Larry D. Long

How to analyze and interpret qualitative and quantitative assessment data

Tapping Into Student Feedback: Instant Surveying With A Tablet, Jennifer Jones, Bryan Sinclair

Bryan Sinclair

Ongoing assessment in academic libraries, particularly the measurement of student perceptions, preferences, and satisfaction, can be a challenge to schedule and execute. To address this challenge, Georgia State University Library piloted the use of tablet computers (iPads) loaded with survey software to poll subjects quickly in the library buildings. The result was a practical, hands-on model that maximized convenience for both subjects and researchers and that other campus administrative and academic units can easily adopt. Presenters will discuss methodology, the benefits of using tablets for formative assessment, recommendations, lessons learned, and ideas for future projects.

Automating The Reporting Of Survey Data, Larry D. Long

Larry D. Long

The presentation explains how to automate the reporting of assessment data using the mailmerge feature in MS Word.

Analysis Of Hiv/Aids Incidents In Sudan With Reference To Khartoum State, Professor Issam A.W. Mohamed

Professor Issam A.W. Mohamed

The present paper introduces results of an analysis conducted on data collected from Khartoum state for the yea 2009. It aims to apply statistical models for the HIV/AIDS data in Khartoum state centers of testing blood and counseling. AIDS is recognized as an emerging disease only in the early 1980s, AIDS has rapidly established itself throughout the world, and is likely to endure and persist well into the 21s century. AIDS has evolved from a mysterious illness to a global pandemic which has infected tens of millions less than 20 years. The importance of the study is to emphasize that …

Making Decisions: Using Electronic Data Collection To Re-Envision Reference Services At The Usf Tampa Libraries, Lily Todorinova, Barbara Lewis, Andy Huse, Matt Torrence

Lily Todorinova

Declining reference statistics, diminishing human resources, and the desire to be more proactive and embedded in academic depart- ments, prompted the University of South Florida Library to create a taskforce for re-envisioning reference services. The taskforce was charged with examining the staffing patterns at the desk and developing recommendations to give librarians greater flexibility and to better respond to the information-seeking needs of users. These recommendations were based on statistics of desk usage, collected with the newly adapted online tool Desk Tracker, and structured interviews with library administrators. The taskforce was interested in how these stakeholders use quantitative data in …

Library Stats As An Assessment Tool, Maira Bundza

Maira Bundza

Western Michigan University has been working on creating a culture of assessment for ten years. The libraries have been using LibQUAL, a user satisfaction survey, since 2004, but have been gathering other statistics and assessment data over these same years. It is time to put it all together into an assessment plan.

Library Stats is an open source tool for maintaining reference statistics. It provides the opportunity to keep rich statistics on each reference transaction, including the actual question and answer. WMU implemented the use of Library Stats across all reference areas in 2009 and has already used the data …

Assessing The Anti-Corruption Strategies. Theoretical And Empirical Models, Ani Matei, Lucica Matei

Lucica Matei

The preoccupations about conceiving and promoting efficient anti-corruption strategies exist in most states, especially in

the developing countries.

The opportunity of such strategies derives from the direct link, demonstrated theoretically and empirically, between the

effects of the anti-corruption strategies and government performance, translated both in the economic and social results

and living standard, welfare etc.

In the last decades, the transnational actors – UN, World Bank, OECD, EU etc. - have affirmed as promoters of own

anti-corruption strategies, directing the states’ efforts, conferring adequate levels of relevance, effectiveness, efficiency

or sustainability.

The South-Eastern European states incorporate own anti-corruption strategies in …

Florida Association Of School Psychologists 38th Annual Conference, Lee A. Wilkinson

Lee A Wilkinson, PhD

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) in Schools: Evidence-Based Screening and Assessment

Epidemiological studies indicate a progressively rising prevalence trend for ASD over the past decade. Yet, compared to population estimates, identification rates have not kept pace in our schools. Many children with ASD are overlooked, misdiagnosed with another psychiatric condition, or present with coexisting psychiatric disorders such as depression and anxiety. School psychologists must be prepared to recognize the presence of risk factors and/or early warning signs of ASD, engage in case finding, and be familiar with screening and assessment tools in order to ensure that students are being identified and …

How Many Doctors Does It Take To Diagnose An Autism Spectrum Disorder?, Lee A. Wilkinson

Lee A Wilkinson, PhD

No abstract provided.

Staff Training At A Combined Services Desk, Anne E. Rauh, Anne Glorioso, Amy Kindschi

Anne Rauh

In the summer of 2008 Wendt Commons undertook the ambitious task of formalizing a training program for all library staff (including students) who work at the combined services desk. Panelists will discuss the development process, show materials created for the pilot program, and offer an evaluation of the outcome. Please attend this session for an engaging discussion of library staff training and leave with ideas that can be implemented in any library setting.

Carl Research Award [Awarded By The California Academic And Research Libraries Association], Shannon M. Staley

Shannon M. Staley

As the Library and Information Science profession has developed a range of core competencies for information literacy based on the Association of College and Research Libraries (ACRL) Information Literacy Competency Standards for Higher Education, the need to assess students' progressive understanding of those competencies has become critical to determining the effectiveness of various library instruction approaches. Currently, there is no standardized or uniform way of assessing student information literacy skills at our library. A review of the literature reveals that many assessment surveys in the field are created without a process of standardization to determine whether respondents interpret questions correctly. …

Csu Mini Grant [Awarded By California State University], Shannon M. Staley

Shannon M. Staley

To apply quality research on information literacy, two graduate students will be hired. One will employ appropriate statistical methods for data collection. The other will program these new statistical reporting features into an online assessment tool and improve its overall usability. This will enhance an understanding of how library instruction impacts SJSU students’ educational experience.

Getting To The Good Stuff: A Look At Compelling Outcomes From The Afa/Ebi Assessment, Tanner Marcantel, Diana Fulkerson, Larry D. Long

Larry D. Long

A presentation on the outcomes of the fraternity/sorority experience.

School-Age Children With Autism Spectrum Disorders: Screening And Identification, Lee A. Wilkinson

Lee A Wilkinson, PhD

Epidemiological studies indicate a worldwide increase in the prevalence of autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) over the past decade. ASDs are no longer considered rare conditions. Although the reason(s) for this rise are uncertain, research indicates that specialised intervention at an early age is vital for optimising the outcomes of children with ASD. However, not all children with milder forms of autism will be identified prior to school entrance. Hence, it is essential for educators and school-based support professionals to ensure that children who have risk factors and/or warning signs of ASD are identified and provided with special educational services as …

Facilitating The Identification Of Autism Spectrum Disorders In School- Age Children, Lee A. Wilkinson

Lee A Wilkinson, PhD

Recent special education trends suggest that students with autism spectrum disorders are underrepresented in our schools’ special education programs. The increased awareness and prevalence of autism, together with the clear benefits of early intervention and special education, have created an urgent need for school-based professionals to identify children who may have an autism spectrum disorder. Screening is an important first step for securing the appropriate educational services. The aim of this article is to provide school professionals with a review of five screening instruments that hold promise for identifying school-age children in need of a more in-depth diagnostic assessment.

Public Services Training At Wendt Library, Anne E. Rauh, Anne Glorioso

Anne Rauh

No abstract provided.

A Standardized Approach To Assessment: Results From A Pilot Study Of Library Instruction Sessions At San Jose State University, Shannon M. Staley

Shannon M. Staley

Introduction
We explore the use of a psychometric model for locally-relevant, information literacy assessment, using an online tool for standardised assessment of student learning during discipline-based library instruction sessions.

Method
A quantitative approach to data collection and analysis was used, employing standardised multiple-choice survey questions followed by individual, cognitive interviews with undergraduate students. The assessment tool was administered to five general education psychology classes during library instruction sessions.

Analysis
Descriptive statistics were generated by the assessment tool. Results. The assessment tool proved a feasible means of measuring student learning. While student scores improved on every survey question, there was uneven …

Using The Read (Reference Effort Assessment Data) Scale© To Assess Reference Work, Maira Bundza

Maira Bundza

Surveys have shown that librarians are not completely satisfied with the statistics used for reference services, so Bella Karr Gerlich at Dominican University developed the READ (Reference Effort Assessment Data) Scale, which has now been tested by 14 academic libraries. In October 2008 the Central Reference Department at Western Michigan University Libraries started using the READ Scale to record reference transactions. Instead of just writing down tick marks for each question answered, each question was rated on a six-point scale, based on the difficulty of the question and the time it took to answer. This low-tech tool was easy to …

Connecting 24/5 To Millennials: Providing Academic Support Services From A Learning Commons, Anne C. Moore, Kimberly Wells

Anne C. Moore

In response to the seamless academic and personal behavior of Millennial college students, libraries are creating a learning commons in which campus academic support services are integrated with library services to provide everything students need to succeed in a single facility 24 hours a day with food. Roving may be an effective way to satisfy the immediate support needs of students collaborating in these bustling environments. A survey conducted on March 16, 2006 of users of the UMass Amherst Learning Commons (opened in the W.E.B. Du Bois Library in September 2005) provided detailed insight into who they are, how often …

Junior Faculty Career Development Grant [Awarded By San Jose State University], Shannon M. Staley

Shannon M. Staley

The need to assess students’ understanding of information literacy competencies has become critical to determining the effectiveness of library instruction. This is particularly true at San Jose State University, where measurement tools are not uniformly applied. Currently, many online achievement tests measure student competence at a general rather than course-specific level. This project proposes the development of an application that enables librarians to create assessment tools matching specific learning objectives of individual courses. Preliminary findings will be shared at information literacy conferences, where experts convene to exchange ideas. Harvesting feedback, the application will be further developed through additional grant funding.