Student Learning Outcomes and Assessment at Saint Louis University

The Five Dimensions of the Saint Louis University Experience are the framework adopted by the SLU community in the fall 2002 semester for student learning outcomes and assessment efforts. The five dimensions flow from the University's Jesuit Catholic mission; are broad enough to encompass the diversity of the University's undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs; and offer the University community the flexibility to develop measurable student outcomes and assessment activities in a meaningful context. The five dimensions express the University's expectations for student engagement in the SLU community. They communicate the University's hopes for students to develop both professionally and personally in the context of the mission.

The Five Dimensions in Practice: Sample Indicators of Engagement provide examples of student engagement for each of the five dimensions. These indicators are examples only; they are not comprehensive or exhaustive. Their purpose is to offer ideas for positioning student outcomes within the framework of the five dimensions.

Assessment Activities at Saint Louis University

Assessment at SLU occurs at the institutional, program, course, and classroom levels for the purposes of proving and improving student learning. In addition, assessment results aid the institution in advancing the strategic direction, Promoting Continuous Institutional Learning and Innovation. (SLU's strategic plan)

Institutional Level Assessment

The Office of the Provost conducts research that focuses on the University's effectiveness in engaging students in the five dimensions. Findings are used to identify areas for possible improvement in the learning environment. Alumni and graduating student surveys are designed to reflect the five dimensions. Results from surveys created externally such as the National Survey of Student Engagement are analyzed in the context of the dimensions. The dimensions also serve as a foundation for examining the effectiveness of SLU's first-year experience programs and for studying the undergraduate experience.

Program and Course Level Assessment

Saint Louis University faculty have established and are actively assessing student learning outcomes for their majors and courses using the framework of the Five Dimensions of the Saint Louis University Experience. Assessment results are utilized to improve courses and curriculum. In addition, staff in student support areas have identified student outcomes and assessment practices in the context of the five dimensions for programs and services they provide. At the end of each fiscal year, the Deans of the Colleges and Schools submit annual assessment reports to the Office of the Provost. These reports typically consist of specific enhancements and improvements in curriculum and programs based on findings from assessment activities.

Classroom Level Assessment

The Reinert Center for Teaching Excellence offers workshops on classroom assessment techniques and syllabus design.

Professional Development

Saint Louis University offers an ongoing series of professional development opportunities for faculty and staff in the areas of designing effective outcomes and assessment activities. For further information on these opportunities, contact Julie Weissman, Associate Provost, Office of the Provost, at weissman@slu.edu or at 977-2193.

Faculty Intern for Assessment
Each year, a faculty member is chosen to work with the Associate Provost on issues related to student outcomes, assessment, and institutional effectiveness. In addition, the faculty intern is available to provide consultation to departments and programs on student outcomes and assessment practices.