Surveys are only valuable if we use the information We need to know what academic departments are doing. Student Affairs does not get information from assessments conducted by academic units. A graduating seniors survey could provide information for the U.S. News and World Report as well as others external measures of quality. Research data are used to help student affairs educators understand what students are learning and to improve programs and services. We have little to no measurement of what our students are learning outside of the classroom.
Portfolio assessments can be valuable and are becoming more popular in higher education.
Revision of orientation programs and creation of PAWS can be attributed to assessments to improve our programs and services. Student Affairs research results are communicated to faculty and staff through our websites, Enrollment Analyses and SWTexans Today. Student affairs educators are knowledgeable about the literature of their profession and apply its theories and practices. Student Affairs educators are knowledgeable in their own discipline and may hold discussions within offices. Staff development programs are offered to assist staff in understanding and applying current research and practice to enhance student learning.