How can you align assessments with external accrediting bodies?

1 Know the standards

The first step to align your assessments with external accrediting bodies is to know their standards and requirements. You should familiarize yourself with the documents and guidelines that they provide, such as accreditation manuals, rubrics, benchmarks, and examples. You should also consult with their representatives or reviewers to clarify any questions or doubts you may have. Knowing the standards will help you understand what the accrediting bodies are looking for and how they will assess your evidence.

3 Design the assessments

The third step to align your assessments with external accrediting bodies is to design your assessments according to their standards and criteria. Assessments are the methods and tools that you use to measure your students' learning and performance. They should be valid, reliable, fair, and transparent. You should also consider the types, formats, and levels of assessments that are appropriate for your discipline and learning outcomes. For example, you may use multiple-choice tests, essays, portfolios, presentations, or simulations. Designing the assessments will help you provide reliable and valid evidence of your students' achievements.

4 Evaluate the assessments

The fourth step to align your assessments with external accrediting bodies is to evaluate your assessments and their results. Evaluation is the process of collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data and feedback from your assessments. It helps you identify the strengths and weaknesses of your assessments, as well as the gaps and challenges in your students' learning. You should also compare your results with the benchmarks and indicators that the accrediting bodies use to measure quality and effectiveness. Evaluating the assessments will help you improve your assessment practices and enhance your students' learning.

5 Document the assessments

The fifth step to align your assessments with external accrediting bodies is to document your assessments and their outcomes. Documentation is the evidence that you present to the accrediting bodies to demonstrate how your assessments align with their standards and expectations. It may include reports, portfolios, artifacts, samples, feedback, or testimonials. You should also organize and format your documentation according to the guidelines and templates that the accrediting bodies provide. Documenting the assessments will help you communicate and justify your assessment decisions and results.

6 Review the assessments

The final step to align your assessments with external accrediting bodies is to review your assessments and their alignment. Review is the process of reflecting on your assessment practices and their impact on your program or course quality and effectiveness. It helps you identify the areas of improvement and the opportunities for innovation and enhancement. You should also seek feedback and input from your stakeholders, such as students, faculty, staff, employers, or alumni. Reviewing the assessments will help you monitor and update your assessment alignment and ensure its relevance and responsiveness.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?