Synopses & Reviews
In this detailed study, Astin examines why assessment activity has produced such meager results and, just as important, how existing activities can be improved. The author also discusses what new assessment practices can be implemented and shares specific and sometimes startling ideas on: How assessment information can most effectively be used for evaluation How results can be used to enlighten and inform the practitioner How practical, technical, and political problems can be overcome when building an assessment database from student and faculty input How the movement of externally mandated assessments in various states is having a negative impact on higher education
Review
This invaluable contribution is essential reading for anyone involved in academic assessment from assessment designers to legislative policy makers.The Journal of Academic Librarianship
Review
Special emphasis is given to the question of how assessment can be used to enlighten professors and administrators about educational practices and policies that enhance the learning process.Reference and Research Book News
Review
This is a welcome book for persons involved in the assessment movement - a broad-based effort to make assessment a more meaningful and effective part of higher education's role and function.Journal of Higher Education
About the Author
ALEXANDER W. ASTIN is Allan M. Cartter professor of higher education and director of the Higher Education Research Institute, University of California, Los Angeles.