Assessment of student outcomes in scientific data analysis and synthesis

James McDougall
,
Tacoma Community College

I designed a set of questions, with input from other faculty, to be used in an interview style at the beginning and end an introductory geology course with volunteer participants. I recorded and videotaped my 15 minute interviews, keeping a written record of responses, and hired a research assistant to help evaluate results

What learning is this evaluation activity designed to assess?

This evaluation activity was designed to take a comprehensive look at prior knowledge of research skills, including use of quantitative data and analysis of data and then examine these perceptions and abilities at the end of the course. I highlighted the knowledge base, the ability to solve problems and apply this understanding to new situations.

What is the nature of the teaching/learning situation for which your evaluation has been designed?

This evaluation activity is best directed at the outcomes developed in laboratory and field activities. It requires considerable time and effort to administer. I carried it out during ongoing lab work, givng very high regard and attention to those students willing to give thoughtful repsonses.

What advice would you give others using this evaluation?

This evaluation is rather intense and involved, however, the results are very rewarding. You are not restricted to survey type questions and the holistic view of the value of the course evaluated can be remarkable.

Are there particular things about this evaluation that you would like to discuss with the workshop participants? Particular aspects on which you would like feedback?

I am particularly interested in how we might look at the objectivity of the data and how that might be verified. I am also interested in ways to share results to benefit other educators.