What is the best way to describe your experience with program assessment?

1 Why program assessment matters

Program assessment is the process of collecting and analyzing evidence to determine how well a program meets its intended outcomes and goals. It helps to improve the quality and effectiveness of the program, as well as to demonstrate its value and impact to stakeholders. Program assessment is essential for accreditation, accountability, and continuous improvement in higher education. By describing your experience with program assessment, you can show that you have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to design, deliver, and enhance academic programs that meet the needs and expectations of students, faculty, employers, and society.

2 How to describe your program assessment experience in your resume

Your resume should effectively summarize your professional achievements and qualifications, with particular emphasis on your program assessment experience. When describing program assessment activities and accomplishments, use action verbs and quantifiable results. Additionally, make sure to align your program assessment experience with the requirements and expectations of the position you are applying for. Finally, use keywords and phrases that match the language and terminology used in the job description or the field of study to ensure that your resume stands out. For example, if the position is in engineering education, include terms like "ABET criteria", "program educational objectives", or "student outcomes".

3 How to describe your program assessment experience in your cover letter

Your cover letter is your opportunity to introduce yourself to the employer and demonstrate your program assessment experience in a relevant and compelling way. To effectively showcase your experience, explain how it matches the needs and goals of the employer and the position. Provide specific examples and stories that illustrate your program assessment skills and achievements, such as implementing a new tool or method. Additionally, express your enthusiasm for applying your program assessment experience to the position and organization. For example, if you have researched the employer's mission, vision, and values, explain how your program assessment experience aligns with them and how you can contribute to their success.

4 How to describe your program assessment experience in your portfolio

Your portfolio is a collection of artifacts and evidence that demonstrate your program assessment experience and competencies. It can be a physical or digital document, or a website or platform that showcases your work. When describing your program assessment experience in your portfolio, select relevant and representative samples of your work, such as reports, presentations, publications, feedback, or awards. Make sure they are current, complete, and accurate and that you have permission to share them if needed. Furthermore, organize your portfolio in a logical and coherent way. Provide an overview or summary of each sample and explain its purpose, context, process, and outcome. Highlight your role and responsibilities and the skills and knowledge you applied or gained from each sample. Additionally, reflect on your program assessment experience and identify your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and challenges. Explain how you have learned from your experience and how you plan to improve or expand your program assessment skills and practice.

5 How to describe your program assessment experience in your interview

Your interview is an opportunity to show the employer your program assessment experience and personality, and to convince them that you are the best fit for the position and organization. When discussing your program assessment experience, be prepared to answer questions such as "What is your approach to program assessment?", "How do you communicate and collaborate with others in program assessment?", or "What are some of the challenges or difficulties you have faced or overcome in program assessment?". To structure your answers, use the STAR method: Situation, Task, Action, and Result. Provide evidence that supports your answers, such as data, feedback, testimonials, or awards. Quantify your results and impact with numbers, percentages, or other metrics. Use stories or anecdotes to demonstrate your passion for the field.

6 How to describe your program assessment experience in your performance review

Your performance review is an opportunity to reflect on your program assessment experience and accomplishments, and to receive feedback from your supervisor or manager. When describing your program assessment experience, review your goals and objectives for the past period, and assess whether you have met or exceeded them. Provide evidence and examples of your program assessment activities and accomplishments, such as reports, presentations, publications, feedback, or awards. Highlight how your program assessment skills have added value to your program, department, or organization. Identify your program assessment strengths and areas for improvement, and seek feedback from your supervisor or manager. Acknowledge any positive feedback or recognition you receive, and address any constructive feedback you receive. Explain how you have applied any feedback or recommendations you have received. Discuss your program assessment goals and objectives for the next period, and explain how you plan to achieve them. Show your commitment to learning and improving in your program assessment skills and practice.

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?