Transcript Document
The Keys to Unlocking Prior Learning Transformation of UMUC’s Portfolio Assessment “The Sequel” Presenters • Shawna Acker-Ball, PhD – Director, Experiential Learning University of Maryland University College • Cheryl Horton, MS Ed – Associate Director, Experiential Learning University of Maryland University College Why Prior Learning Assessment? • UMUC’s mission and student population – Open admission university – Non-traditional learners – Adult learners bring a wealth of prior learning experiences to the classroom – Prior learning assessment values students’ knowledge Overview of PLA Program • UMUC and Prior Learning Assessment – Program was established in 1978. – All student portfolios were submitted in hard copy binders and mailed to each evaluators. – CD’s and web based platform are now used. • Strictly web based beginning Spring 2012 Program Background • Program eligibility – – – – – Degree Audit Team Official evaluation Grade point average Writing requirement Resident credits (3)/Transfer credits (30) EXCL 301-Learning Analysis and Planning • The three (3) credit course guides students through exercises toward the preparation of a written portfolio that describes and documents their college-level learning. – Eight (8) weeks in duration/online and face to face – Satisfactory/D/Fail - grading method • If student receives the grade of “D” for the course, the portfolio is not moved forward for evaluation. • Students who pass the course with an “S” or “D” are not permitted to re-take EXCL 301 – Up to 30 credits can be earned (15 for second bachelor’s degree) Evaluation Process • Faculty evaluation – All faculty evaluators are approved by respective academic directors. – All faculty evaluators are provided Evaluator Guidelines and PLA resources. – All credit recommendations from evaluators are reviewed and approved by UMUC’s Degree Audit Team (DAT). Evaluation Process • Evaluators make credit recommendations based on the learning outcomes and supporting documentation. • Credit is granted for verifiable college-level learning from one’s experiences, but not for the experiences themselves. EXCL Credit Awards How many credits are students guaranteed to earn? • Successful completion of EXCL 301 will earn three credits for the course. • There is no guarantee that students will receive credit from the evaluation of their portfolio. • The average credit award is between 15 and 18 credits. – Assessment fees are applied. – PLA tuition is offered at a reduced cost. Transformation • Curriculum redesign – EXCL 301 underwent review – 18 month project • Changes to the program mission and outcomes – Change from course objectives to learning outcomes – Creation of common assignments across all sections – Changed course duration from 15 weeks to 8 weeks beginning fall 2011 – Process – Established concepts and skills and issues related to the program – Feedback loop is ongoing Shift in Paradigm • Establish prior learning culture • Faculty teaching method – shortened timeframe • Encourage increased faculty interaction with online courses • Encourage increased student engagement – “hit the ground running” Shift in Paradigm – OEL department review of all portfolio evaluations from faculty. – Ensure portfolio evaluations adhere to department standards. – Required participation in faculty/evaluator Wimba workshops. And More Assessment • Academic Program Review – Deeper look at all systems and processes • • • • No textbook All resources/templates embedded in the course Inclusion of writing advisors in each course section Alternative assessment strategies (interview, simulations, etc.) • Quantitative evaluation rubrics – Spring 2012 • Redesign of Evaluator Manual – Spring 2012 Changes to Come • Competency Based Education – – – – Portfolio/Course Challenge expansion Messaging to students at admission Messaging to target populations for each program UMUC-wide support • Office of Enrollment Management • All academic units – Anticipated increase in student participation Questions and Answers Shawna Acker-Ball [email protected] Cheryl Horton [email protected] Telephone (240) 684-2890