Weber State University   

Philosophy

Results of Assessment

1999-2000 (submitted 10/8/00)

Interim Assessment Report for Philosophy Program.

Discussion last year focused on the issue of:

1. Problems associated with collecting data from minors.
   1. Process

      It was thought best to attempt to identify minors at various points in their progress. This could be accomplished by:

      1. Talking about the minor in Introduction classes.
      2. Identifying all those students in upper division classes with significant progress towards minor.
      3. Having actual and prospective minor fill out a tracking form.
   2. Outcome

      Last year we collected forms from over twenty potential minors, including information on their progress towards the minor. We also informed them at that time of the assessment process and asked for input.
      

2. Various methods of demonstrating competence.

1. Process

The initial goal was to measure the following skills : (a) logical reasoning, (b) historical knowledge (c) topical knowledge and (d) paper writing

The central issue was whether to use material from previous classes as a portfolio to verify their progress or whether progress could best be illustrated by the completion of a capstone course at the end of their studies. It was decided that a capstone course would work best. Due to the relatively small numbers of minors students would sign up with a professor in their senior year for a 2 credit course which would include both an exam component to measure competence skills and a paper writing project.

2. Outcome:

Work was begun in preparing the paperwork for submitting a capstone course to the Curriculum Committee.

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