This is a practical resource for community and two year college professionals engaged at all levels of learning outcomes assessment. It is designed as a guide both to inform the creation of new assessment efforts and to enhance and strengthen assessment programs already established, or in development. Each chapter addresses a key component of the assessment process, beginning with the creation of a learning-centered culture and the development and articulation of shared outcomes goals and priorities. Subsequent chapters lead the reader through the development of a plan, the selection of assessment methods, and the analysis of results. The book concludes by discussing the communication of results and their use in decision making; integrating the conclusions in program review as well as to inform budgeting; and, finally, evaluating the process for continuous improvement, as well as engaging in reflection.The book is illustrated by examples developed by faculty and student affairs/services professionals at community and two year colleges from across the country. Furthermore, to ensure its relevance and applicability for its targeted readership, each chapter has at least one author who is a community college or two-year college professional.

Determining what you want to get out of the process -- Establishing a learning-centered culture: commitment to evidence-based decision-making -- Developing shared learning outcomes and determining priorities for assessment -- Building a professional development plan -- Selecting a method -- Analyzing and interpreting results -- Using and communicating results -- Decision-making in the learning outcomes assessment process -- Incorporating outcomes-based assessment into program review and budgeting -- Evaluating the process -- Looking ahead, moving toward a more holistic approach to assessment.