1. 2012-2013 Assessment Report School of The Arts, Humanities, and Social Sciences Department: Sociology Chair: Julie M. Ford Assessment Coordinator: Elliot B. Weininger Date of Presentation: October 1, 2013

2. What was assessed? Student learning outcomes list: Students will be able to: *Apply sociological concepts and theories to contemporary social issues. Analyze how social institutions shape individual experiences and opportunities. Identify the causes and consequences of various forms of social inequality.

3. What was assessed? Student learning outcomes list (cont.): Students will be able to: Use quantitative data to calculate and interpret statistics to effectively communicate sociological findings. Select appropriate sociological research methods from the quantitative and qualitative traditions to study social phenomena. Produce written work that effectively integrates sociological concepts or theories with empirical findings. Demonstrate mastery of ethical standards governing research with human subjects.

4. How was the assessment accomplished? Student work assessed: What assignments in what courses-- tests, products of student work, etc.? – Soc 100: Test Questions – Soc 300 (Theory): Test Questions Measurement strategy: scores, rubric, etc. – Soc 100: Ten multiple choice questions covering the application of key concepts – Soc 300: Three essay questions covering the application of key concepts; graded with rubric Sample size: n students (Is this a sample or all eligible students?) – Soc 100: 168 students (sample) – Soc 300: 22 students (sample)

5. Soc 100 Benchmark At least 75% of students meet or exceed expectations (with “exceed” defined as 8+/10 correct, and “meet” defined as 7/10 correct).

6. Soc 100 Results

7. 77.9% of students met or exceeded expectations. Benchmark met.

8. Soc 300 Benchmark At least 75% of students meet or exceed expectations on at least two of the three essay questions, per the following definitions: B+ or above: exceeds C+, B-, or B: meets C- or C: approaches D+ or below: does not meet

9. Soc 300 Results

10. 59.1% of students met or exceeded expectations. Did not meet benchmark.

11. Data-driven decisions: How the department has or plans to “close the loop” based on these results. Soc 300 has been revised to have greater emphasis on application (as opposed to just understanding) of key concepts through lectures, discussion, and practice questions.

12. What resources were used or have been requested to close the loop? None