Using Direct and Indirect Measures to Assess Student Learning Outcomes
Direct Measures
- Demonstrate student learning of knowledge or skill
- Data is based on assessment of the work students complete/perform
- Attainment of the outcome is obvious, not inferred
- Examples: fixed-item questions (e.g., multiple-choice), writing samples, portfolio artifacts, capstone projects, presentations, performances, measurements of growth over time
- When to use:
- conducting course-embedded assessment
- conducting assessment of curricular program learning outcomes
Indirect Measures
- Capture insights regarding learning processes or perceptions of student learning
- Data may be provided by students or those who work with students
- Attainment of the outcome is inferred
- Examples: surveys, interviews, focus groups, academic records (e.g., course grades, curricular plans, average GPA, observation records, participation in academic or co-curricular experiences, placement rates)
- When to use:
- supplementing direct measures,
- providing evidence of subsequent success, satisfaction, and value added,
- obtaining information based on the stakeholders' perspectives, and/or
- providing evidence for the validity of student competencies or student attainment