Communication Skills Communication skills are assessed by evaluating the student's ability to verbally express understanding of the art and design produced as well as the art and design produced by peers. This assessment takes place with one or more faculty in both individual and group formal critiques. In the area of written communication, students are assessed with art history papers, journals in studio courses, and undergraduate thesis statements in the ART 490, Senior Thesis course. Written communication skills develop an understanding of common art elements and vocabulary, place works of art in historical and stylistic context, and form and defend value judgements about art and design and art-related issues. Students must be able to break down the different levels of achievement in a composition, and discuss the thought process used to arrive at the final product.
Evaluation is conducted by the studio instructor as well as student peers and outside reviewers.
Creative problem-solving is a basic skill for all art majors and is assessed at every level from freshman through senior year studio courses. Assessment Results Discipline-Specific Knowledge Students in the School of Art develop a high level of competencies in creating finished works of art and design. The quality of work in the Graduating Senior Exhibition demonstrates success and knowledge of art-making skills and abilities. Students win awards in exhibitions, are successful in seeking employment with their design portfolios, and have a high rate of acceptance into graduate programs across the country. Finished works of art demonstrate competence in technical skills, and understanding of processes and materials.