General Education Assessment for Improvement of Student Academic Achievement" by James O. Nichols and Karen W. Nichols is an indispensable guide for educators and administrators committed to enhancing student learning through effective assessment practices. This comprehensive resource provides practical models and actionable strategies for evaluating and improving general education programs—commonly referred to as the core curriculum—at colleges and universities.
The Role of General Education Assessment
General education lies at the heart of undergraduate education, providing students with critical skills in communication, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Nichols and Nichols emphasize the importance of assessing this core curriculum to ensure that it meets institutional goals and prepares students for success. By focusing on the foundational role of general education, this book underscores how effective assessment can enhance both academic achievement and institutional effectiveness.
Meeting the Rising Demand for Accountability
With growing pressures from public stakeholders, government bodies, and accreditation agencies, higher education institutions face increased demands for transparency and measurable outcomes. Nichols and Nichols address these challenges by offering proven assessment methods that respond to accountability requirements while maintaining the integrity and quality of education.
Adaptable Models for Diverse Institutions
A standout feature of this book is its adaptable, user-friendly approach. The authors present assessment models that have been successfully implemented across a range of institutions, from community colleges to major universities. These real-world examples empower educators to tailor assessment strategies to their institution’s unique culture, mission, and needs, ensuring broad applicability and ease of implementation.
Fostering Continuous Improvement
The authors frame assessment as a tool for ongoing enhancement rather than a bureaucratic exercise. They demonstrate how data-driven decision-making can guide curriculum updates, faculty development, and student support services. By fostering a culture of accountability and continuous improvement, institutions can ensure their general education programs remain dynamic and relevant to student needs.
A Practical Resource for Educators and Administrators
Written in a clear, accessible style, this book is designed for academic administrators, faculty, and accreditation committees. It equips readers with the knowledge and tools needed to create effective assessment frameworks and use results to improve student outcomes.
Conclusion: A Blueprint for Academic Excellence
"General Education Assessment for Improvement of Student Academic Achievement" is an essential resource for institutions dedicated to strengthening their general education programs. By combining practical insights, adaptable models, and a commitment to continuous improvement, Nichols and Nichols provide a roadmap for fostering student success and meeting the growing demand for accountability in higher education. Whether you’re an administrator, faculty member, or accreditation leader, this book is a vital tool for enhancing academic achievement and institutional effectiveness.
This monograph focuses on general education, the one common curricular component that most institutions of higher learning share at the undergraduate level. Also known as the "core curriculum," this uniquely American curricular form is among the common interests of regional accreditation associations throughout the United States. In publicly financed institutions, it is also the area most likely to be the subject of "assessment for accountability" efforts by the public and their representatives. The monograph is user-oriented like the others in the series. Specific examples of models of general education assessment activities (through use of results to improve student learning) are provided for a comprehensive community college, a major state university, and a private college. Users are encouraged to adjust and adapt the models described to best meet their institutional circumstances and culture.
