In this episode, Dr. Gianina Baker, Associate Director of the Office of Community College Research and Leadership and Acting Director of the National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment (NILOA), explores how assessment practices in higher education can shift from a compliance-driven model to one focused on student empowerment and continuous improvement.Key themes include:Evolving Assessment Practices: Baker outlines how assessment began with an accreditation-driven approach but has increasingly moved towards a model that values student-centered and improvement-focused assessment.Transparency in Communication: The NILOA Transparency Framework is highlighted as a guide for institutions to effectively communicate assessment practices and learning outcomes to both internal and external stakeholders. Transparency goes beyond availability—it requires clarity and context.Using Data for Improvement: Emphasizing action over mere data collection, Baker calls for using assessment evidence to inform decisions, support improvement initiatives, and communicate the value of student learning.Equity in Assessment: Baker stresses the importance of analyzing data by student demographics to address disparities and support all learners effectively.Notable points include:The NILOA Transparency Framework: Comprised of six components, this framework supports institutions in making learning evidence clear, accessible, and actionable.Student-Centered Assessment: Moving beyond accreditation, the presentation emphasizes putting students at the heart of assessment through agency, feedback loops, and a holistic view of learning experiences.Quotes and Insights: Quotes from thought leaders like George Kuh reinforce the importance of patience and practice in assessment, with Baker noting that institutions must actively use assessment data to earn distinctions like the “Excellence in Assessment” designation.Takeaways:Apply the NILOA Transparency Framework to your institution’s assessment practices.Enhance communication around assessment data, ensuring it’s accessible to diverse audiences.Prioritize using assessment data to drive improvement and demonstrate educational value.Involve students as active participants, emphasizing their feedback and impact on assessment outcomes.This presentation provides a powerful call for institutions to rethink assessment as a tool for empowerment, transparency, and true educational impact.

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