Course-level assessment describes the assessment of student proficiency in defined course learning outcomes (CLOs). CLO assessment occurs in a continuous improvement cycle of design/selection, implementation, data collection, data analysis, reflection, identification of areas in need of improvement, action planning, change implementation, reassessment, and reporting/documentation. Outcome assessments are primarily focused on direct measures of student learning, such as capstone projects, course assignments and projects, papers, and lab reports. Where needed and applicable, indirect measures are used to supplement direct measures, such as job placement rates, certifications, and employers’ perspectives on graduates (via surveys) among other considerations.

One method of capturing CLO assessment is through the Chapter 335 process. Pennsylvania regulation (22 Pa. Code § 335 – Community College Courses or “Chapter 335”) ensures the accuracy and appropriateness of certain aspects of community college course offerings, including the catalog description, the course learning outcomes (CLOs), the number of credits, and alignment with programs, where applicable. Chapter 335 mandates that every course offered is evaluated at least once every five years. At given points in time, we are required to show evidence that our courses are in compliance (meaning that they had been evaluated within the allotted time frame).

• Chapter 335 form