MSCHE Evaluation Report May 2021

Team Report (Self-Study Evaluation)

Page 15

Standard V: Educational Effectiveness Assessment

Assessment of student learning and achievement demonstrates that the institution’s students have accomplished educational goals consistent with their programs of study, degree level, the institution’s mission, and appropriate expectations for institutions of higher education.

In the team’s judgment, the institution appears to meet this standard.

This judgment is based on a review of the self-study report, evidence, and interviews with institutional constituencies to clarify information and verify compliance during the self-study evaluation team visit. Summary of Findings Based on a review of the self-study, other institutional documents, and interviews with faculty, staff, students, and others, the team developed the following conclusions relative to this standard. The College maintains a very strong culture of planning, assessment, analysis and implementation in all aspects of its operation. A comprehensive assessment plan is detailed in Appendix M of the Faculty Handbook. The assessment plan is directly linked to the College’s Five-year Strategic Plan, overseen by the Office of Institutional Research and Planning. Regarding assessment of the education program, the College has a clear plan for evaluating each of the degree programs offered. Outcomes data for each program are published for all stakeholders to view in the College’s Factbook posted on the College’s web page. The goals of each degree program are clearly linked to the mission statement of the College and are implemented by specific curricular learning objectives. Note that these curricular goals and standards are assessed by the professional accrediting body, the Accreditation Council on Optometric Education (ACOE). In the OD program, the syllabi indicate how each learning objective is addressed and evaluated in each course. Students are evaluated by written examinations and practical pre-clinical examinations in their traditional coursework and on their patient care performance in the clinics. A more comprehensive assessment of student learning is evaluated by multiple indicators. Foremost is student performance on the NBEO national licensing examinations, where SUNY students have a 96% pass rate at the time of graduation. The quality and nature of a student’s patient care experience is evaluated by a web-based data tracking system, Meditrek, to record patient encounters, so that progress can be readily assessed by clinical faculty. Evaluation of student success is also indicated by the high percentage of students graduating in four years, and the number of students (40%) pursuing residency programs. Overall student performance is evaluated and analyzed on a variety of levels by the Department Chairs, Curriculum Committee, Dean’s Council and the Clinical Education Council. In addition, student participation in the educational assessment process occurs in a number of ways. Student perspectives are provided through course evaluations, and Student Council Representatives meet with the Vice President for Academic Affairs, Department Chairs, and the Vice President for Student Affairs. Students also have representation on the College’s Curriculum Committee. An exit survey is given to graduating students, and an Alumni Survey is given to those six years post-graduation.