We continually assess the discipline-specific knowledge of our majors. Many of our graduates go to graduate schools, others enter into a wide range of professional activities, and we are concerned that the knowledge they gain in our courses is appropriate. From student feed-back, exit interviews, and departmental contact with graduates, we have so far identified a few minor problems but no major ones. This type of evaluation is continuing, most importantly together with the department's Advisory Board. Our incoming students have the communication skills typical of Montana high school graduates, and the variation is large.
Practice turns out to be most essential in reducing anxiety.
The students typically develop a good, relaxed speaking style and learn how to organize their material and presentation. Similarly, we have found that a consistent requirement of written reports that are carefully read and criticized, has resulted in students with much improved written communication skills. We have found that, for the majority of students, the research is very beneficial, a very good exercise in skills, and a great confidence builder. For many students, their undergraduate research has been a critical influence on their subsequent professional careers. The university could help by working on instilling a good academic culture in our students.