Creating a Culture of Assessment

Abstract

Programmatic and curricular assessment, as mechanisms of continuous quality improvement, are essential and require input from multiple stakeholders. Despite its essential nature, there are few resources to help guide the development of a sustainable model of assessment. The aims of this organizational case study are to describe a sustainable model. Data was collected from various stakeholders of the Doctor of Physical Therapy (DPT) program. Results were compared between and within groups to determine level of agreement and yearly trends. These results were discussed at the faculty assessment retreat. The outcomes included data collection timelines that have been operationalized and systematized. Five out of nine faculty participated in a post-survey. All respondents (100%) indicated a favorable impression of the event. Building a culture of assessment requires an intentional and sustainable plan. A retreat was an effective method to communicate the results of the assessment and to build trust and transparency.