Unit: Information & Computer Science
Program: Computer Science (BS), Info & Comp Sci (BA)
Degree: Bachelor's
Date: Thu Nov 12, 2009 - 10:04:54 am

1) List your program's student learning outcomes (SLOs).

(a) Students can apply knowledge of computing and mathematics appropriate to the discipline

(b) Students can analyze a problem, and identify and define the computing requirements appropriate to its solution

(c) Students can design, implement, and evaluate a computer-based system, process, component, or program to meet desired needs

(d) Students can function effectively on teams to accomplish a common goal

(e) Students have an understanding of professional, ethical, legal, security and social issues and responsibilities

(f) Students can communicate effectively with a range of audiences

(g) Students can analyze the local and global impact of computing on individuals, organizations, and society

(h) Students can recognize the need for and an ability to engage in continuing professional development

(i) Students can use current techniques, skills, and tools necessary for computing practice.

(j) An ability to use and apply current technical concepts and practices in the core information

technologies. [BA IT only]

(k) An ability to identify and analyze user needs and take them into account in the selection,

creation, evaluation and administration of computer-based systems. [BA IT only]

(l) An ability to effectively integrate IT-based solutions into the user environment. [BA IT only]

(m) An understanding of best practices and standards and their application. [BA IT only]

(n) An ability to assist in the creation of an effective project plan. [BA IT only]

2) Where are your program's SLOs published?

Department Website URL:
Student Handbook. URL, if available online:
Information Sheet, Flyer, or Brochure URL, if available online:
UHM Catalog. Page Number:
Course Syllabi. URL, if available online: NA
Other:
Other:

3) Upload your program's current curriculum map(s) as a PDF.

Curriculum Map File(s) from 2009:

4) What percentage of courses have the course SLOs explicitly stated on the course syllabus, department website, or other publicly available document? (Check one)

0%
1-50%
51-80%
81-99%
100%

5) State the SLO(s) that was Assessed, Targeted, or Studied

The ICS Department assessed and studied the SLOs that are covered in the introductory computer science courses (ICS 111 and 211).  The student learning outcomes covered in ICS 111 and 211 are b, d, h, i, j, and m.

6) State the Assessment Question(s) and/or Goal(s) of Assessment Activity

The ICS Department wanted to determine the most effective method to teach introductory Information and Computer Science courses, as they serve as the basis for all subsequent coursework.

7) State the Type(s) of Evidence Gathered

The ICS Department collected pre-test and post-test scores of students in introductory programming courses, ICS 111 and ICS 211.  The ICS Department also collected survey data from the students, which included demographic and qualitative data. 

8) State How the Evidence was Interpreted, Evaluated, or Analyzed

The pre- and post-test scores were compared to determine the best instructional method for introductory Computer Science courses.  Qualitative data were also collected to gain insight into the students’ learning process.  The data were analyzed by teaching assistants and faculty.

9) State How Many Pieces of Evidence Were Collected

Data were collected from all students who were enrolled in ICS 111 (58 students) and 211 (35 students) in the spring 2009 semester.

10) Summarize the Actual Results

The ICS Department determined that the intervention used in instruction provided in ICS 111 and 211 increased learning and achievement for beginning Information and Computer Science students.  Therefore, the ICS Department believes that this method of instruction may applicable to other ICS courses to improve student learning and achievement.

11) Briefly Describe the Distribution and Discussion of Results

The results were available for ICS faculty to review.  The results were discussed by the ICS Assessment Committee.

12) Describe Conclusions and Discoveries

The ICS Department concluded that the method of instruction that was studied increased student learning and achievement based on the student learning outcomes.  Therefore, the ICS Department believes that the intervention should be discussed at future faculty meetings to determine which courses could integrate this method of instruction.

13) Use of Results/Program Modifications: State How the Program Used the Results --or-- Explain Planned Use of Results

The ICS Department is planning to use the results to determine if the investigated method of instruction is viable for other ICS courses.  We plan to discuss this opportunity at future faculty meetings to determine where and how it can be integrated.

14) Reflect on the Assessment Process

The assessment process was enlightening to the ICS Department, as we were able to identify an instructional method that can improve student learning.  We also found the creation of the curriculum maps to be very useful and intend to use them in future curriculum committee meetings when reviewing new course proposals.  Next time, we believe that we would like to start on the assessment process earlier, as it is time consuming, but is well worth the effort.

15) Other Important Information

No approved distance learning undergraduate programs.

16) FOR DISTANCE PROGRAMS ONLY: Explain how your program/department has adapted its assessment of student learning in the on-campus program to assess student learning in the distance education program.

17) FOR DISTANCE PROGRAMS ONLY: Summarize the actual student learning assessment results that compare the achievement of students in the on-campus program to students in the distance education program.