Program: Computer Science (MS)
Degree: Master's
Date: Tue Nov 17, 2009 - 2:40:16 pm
1) List your program's student learning outcomes (SLOs).
Master of Science in Computer Science and Online Master of Science in Computer Science
The Master of Science in Information and Computer Sciences program provides students with advanced technical education to specialize in computer science or apply computer science to another field. Students are able to study the description and representation of information, as well as the theory, design, analysis and application of algorithmic processes to manipulate that information. With this deeper understanding of the computer science, students are able to complete individual research projects in their specialized fields.
1. Student Learning Outcomes
Student will be able to:
a. Curriculum:
1. Use current technology concepts and practices in software development as it relates to their specific field of interest;
2. Manage all aspects of solving computer-based problems involving requirements analysis, design, implementation, and project management;
3. Participate in collaborative team orientated activities;
4. Communicate effectively using modern technologies that require oral, written and web media;
5. Obtain an advanced technical education above what is provided by the Bachelor degree in computers.
b. Research
1. Student and faculty engage in research that responds to community and industry needs in their program of study;
2. Students engage in research under faculty mentorship;
3. Students present their research;
4. Students achieve recognition for the quality of their research through receipt of awards.
c. Service
1. Graduates will take on a variety of leadership roles in high technology, from research and development to starting up new high tech companies.
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: 
Other: Planned: Department website Other: Planned: Information sheet3) Upload your program's current curriculum map(s) as a PDF.
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
6) State the Assessment Question(s) and/or Goal(s) of Assessment Activity
7) State the Type(s) of Evidence Gathered
Data are collected from Master of Computer Sciences majors.
a. Written examinations that assess the student’s understanding of the theoretical concepts in computers and information sciences. Through tests students are able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge acquired in each course.
b. Class assignments allow students to apply computer concepts and theories to practice and solve specific computer-based problems.
c. Students are involved in group projects where their ability to work collaboratively can be assessed. These projects allow students to develop their managerial skills in designing and implementing software systems.
d. Course presentations are part course curriculum. Students are assessed in their ability to present and explain topics in the information and computer sciences fields. In presenting information, they can use a number of methods including but not limited to the use of software to present electronic presentations, use of the web as well as to communicate in writing and in person.
e. Performing research in their focus area that results in a capstone project used for their thesis or Plan B project
f. The department plans to develop an exit survey to be administered to students when they exit the program. This survey will be given to students when they have their Goldenrod form signed by an ICS advisor.
8) State How the Evidence was Interpreted, Evaluated, or Analyzed
Assessment of student progress is accomplished by:
a. The graduate student must meet with the Masters Program Chair during the first semester to determine their program objective.
b. A degree plan must be filed after completion of their first 12 credit hours of courses. For Plan A (thesis) candidates a proposal of the courses the student intends to take are reviewed to insure a coherent plan of study. Students who file a Plan B program must review their course options and project with the Graduate Chair.
c. Performing research in two “capstone” courses are required for this degree. Under Plan A, the successful completion of their thesis and successful submission to Graduate Division is required while for Plan B, the final project must be approved by a supervising faculty member.
d. Written examinations that assess the student’s understanding of the theoretical concepts in computers and information sciences. Through tests students are able to demonstrate the skills and knowledge acquired in each course.
e. Class assignments allow students to apply computer concepts and theories to practice and solve specific computer-based problems.
f. Students are involved in group projects where their ability to work collaboratively can be assessed. These projects allow students to develop their managerial skills in designing and implementing software systems.
g. Course presentations are part course curriculum. Students are assessed in their ability to present and explain topics in the information and computer sciences fields. In presenting information, they can use a number of methods including but not limited to the use of software to present electronic presentations, use of the web as well as to communicate in writing and in person.
h. The department plans to develop an exit survey to be administered to students when they exit the program. This survey will be given to students when they have their Goldenrod form signed by an ICS advisor.
9) State How Many Pieces of Evidence Were Collected
10) Summarize the Actual Results
11) Briefly Describe the Distribution and Discussion of Results
From the data currently collected, the ICS faculty reviews the results to make informed decisions concerning the curriculum and administration of the program.
12) Describe Conclusions and Discoveries
13) Use of Results/Program Modifications: State How the Program Used the Results --or-- Explain Planned Use of Results
a. The data collected are used to advise, and counsel students in addressing their academic and career concerns.
b. The ICS program is constantly developing new topics that enable students to select courses in their particular areas of interest. This allows the student to establish a subject emphasis in their preparation towards their Master’s research project.
c. The Department has made administrative changes recently and hired a Faculty Specialist who will work on both the ICS and LIS programs to address student issues such as student data management (creating a database to integrate all relevant student information including survey data, advising, courses taken, background, track, alumni status and directory information, etc.). This position will provide the support needed to better advise students and track assessment.
14) Reflect on the Assessment Process
15) Other Important Information
The Information and Computer Sciences Assessment Committee is currently working on assessment plans for the Bachelor of Arts in Information and Computer Sciences, the Bachelor of Arts in Information and Computer Sciences w/ and IT focus, and the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. Once the assessment plan is complete, the committee plans to assess the Master of Science and PhD in Computer Science.