University of Nebraska Kearney

Writing Intensive Assessment Plan

Overview

Student outcomes assessment of the Writing Intensive Program at UNK is conducted at two levels. At the department level, student performance is assessed in the WI course(s) that all UNK students are required to take (6 hours). A rubric is used in each department to assess the writing of the students, and the results are reported as part of each department’s annual assessment report.

At the program level, both direct (standardized tests) and indirect measures (campus-wide survey) are used to determine program effectiveness, based on student performance, with results reported in the WI Program’s annual assessment report.

Direct Measure

Writing Rubric

At the department level, each department has developed and implemented a writing rubric appropriate to their specific objectives for writing in the discipline. These results are reported in each department’s annual assessment report.

ACT CAAP Standardized Tests of Writing and of Critical Thinking

At the program level the ACT CAAP standardized tests of writing and of critical thinking are given to a group of 400 freshman and 400 seniors every 3 years.

Indirect Measure

WI Survey

A WI survey is administered campus-wide every 3 years to obtain students’ perceptions and opinions about the WI courses and program. The survey asks students to evaluate their own ability to communicate effectively in writing; to write as a professionals; and to use critical thinking, reasoning and analyzing in their writing. The survey also asks students to evaluate how effective the WI program is in helping them to develop these skills.