A Data Capture and Analysis Tool for a Future Education Model Future Graduate Program

Abstract

Understand the development and application of the digital tool for multi-purposes student and program evaluation and improvement. Tool Requirement ACEND Future Graduate Future Education Model programs are required to assess and report competency-based education student and program outcomes, graduated student Commission on Dietetic Registration examination pass rates, student and employer feedback. There is a paucity of available tools for program directors and coordinators to streamline data collection, analyze and report outcomes in an efficient and comprehensive manner. Tool Development Required program data is often fragmented in various locations. For example, didactic course competency performance indicators (PIs) are captured via rubrics in a learning management system such as Canvas and through clinical education management, EXXAT for supervised experiential learning. Program outcomes are collected elsewhere. Few tools are compatible with each other. To consolidate multiple data sites, Pacific created a unified tool with Microsoft Access application. Unique Characteristics Microsoft Access is a relational database system with the capacity to import excel spreadsheets from other systems such as Canvas and EXXAT. As relational database, software is “aware” of how the data are organized and related across the database tables. Forms and surveys are created from tables or queries for user-friendly entering data into the database in real time. Reports are generated and linked to curriculum mapping, expected program thresholds, survey results, and competency PI outcomes per student, course, cohort and program. Evaluation and Application This new tool efficiently assesses and tracks program and student competency PIs. Its ability to manage and organize large amounts of program data provides ‘real time’ evaluation and reporting for program quality improvement and ongoing evaluation.