Micronesian Studies Program

Program Student Learning Outcomes Assessment
(AY 2019-2020)

AY 2018-2019

AY 2017-2018

AY 2016-2017

AY 2015-2016

AY 2014-2015

AY 2013-2014

AY 2012-2013

AY 2011-2012

Program Student Learning Outcomes (PSLOs)

At the completion of the Micronesian Studies Program, the student will be able to:

1. Demonstrate the ability to read, speak and write critically and effectively in English about Micronesian Studies Program course content.
2. Demonstrate proficiency in the geographical, historical, and cultural literacy of the Micronesian region.
3. Demonstrate proficient knowledge of the structure and functions of the government and social, political, and economic issues concerning the Micronesian Studies course content.
4. Demonstrate the ability to perform research and write papers relevant to Micronesia using different methods and technologies.
5. Demonstrate an appreciation of the requirements of good citizenship in the FSM.

PSLO Assessment Report Summary

What we looked at:

The decision to assess PSLOs 1 & 4 was identified, based on the previous assessments and recommendations.

PSLOs 1 & 4, using final research papers in two research courses in the program. The courses include Research methods (SS200) and Directed Study (SS280). The rubric looked at the following criteria: Thesis formulation, reliability of sources, analysis, synthesis, and process. Each category will be worth 4 points.

NOTE: Annually, courses offered in Fall and Spring semesters are assessed to create a PAS. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 crisis, classes at COM-FSM were abruptly cancelled. Consequently, due to the fact that classes were ceased almost two months prior to the official end of spring semester, the writer decided not to include Spring 2020 results, as they were incomplete. After all, the assessment target plan was to assess final papers. Thus, what is reported here reflects results of Fall 2019 from both courses.

What we found:

PSLO 1. Demonstrate the ability to read, speak and write critically and effectively in English about Micronesian Studies Program course content.

PSLO 4. Demonstrate the ability to perform research and write papers relevant to Micronesia using different methods and technologies.

Assessment results in both semesters reveal that Analysis continues to be the weakest area for research papers, while Thesis formulation remains the strongest area. Detailed results of students rating on the seven areas are stated in Table 1.

Category	Total assessed	Thesis formulation	Info Seeking	Analysis	Synthesis	Documentation	Product& Process
SS280-Fall 2019	N=7	100%	71%	57%	57%	71%	100%
SS200-Fall 2019	N=12	91%	83%	67%	67%	83%	83%
Average score by category for both courses		95.5%	77%	62%	62%	77%	91.5%

Results reported reflect only the final paper results, as dictated by the Micronesian Studies Assessment plan for the SY 2019-2020. Upon submission, the final paper was expected to be written in APA format with a cover page, an Abstract, Introduction, Methodology, Findings and results, Analysis, and a Conclusion and Discussion. Assessment results reveal that student performance on two areas was very weak (See results in Table 1). The two areas are Analysis and Synthesis. The Analysis part looked at how [Student(s) carefully analyzed the information collected and drew appropriate and inventive conclusions supported by evidence. Voice of the student writer is evident.] The Synthesis part looked at how [Student(s) developed appropriate structure for communicating product, incorporating variety of quality sources. Information is logically and creatively organized with smooth transitions.]. Conversely, the performance on Thesis formulation showed the strongest results at 100% for SS280 and 91% for SS200. (Also see results in Table 1).

Other observations: Based on pre-writing assessment done on first day of instruction in SS200 Research class, it is evident that students who took expos writing were more familiar with research than those who did not. Students, who concurrently take SS200 and SS280 for the first time, have a harder time in both courses. Additionally, students who complete all required introductory SS courses are more familiar with history, politics, culture, and economy of Micronesia. Thus, when they are tasked to identify a research topic in SS280, they do better than those who have not completed the SS280. They are also more critical about how they approach a topic relating to Micronesia. All the more reason why SS280 should remain the capstone course for the program.

What we are planning to work on:

• Maintain class size for Research courses at a minimum of 15 students each section.
• Maintain same assessment strategies to assess the same program outcomes, due to the fact that one semester not assessed due to abrupt closure of Sping2020.
• Maintain class size for Research courses at a minimum of 15 students each section.
• Employ more critical thinking and writing exercises in SS courses to improve student performance in areas of analysis and reasoning.

Recommendations for students:

• Complete SS200Research methods before taking SS280Directed Study.
• Complete ALL required introductory SS courses before taking SS280.
• Students must have good reading and writing skills to articulate ideas, both in written and oral communication.
• Students seek advice of the Micronesian Studies Program advisors for better course planning.

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