Assessment Process

NWIC is creating assessment processes that…

• are participatory
• are formative (ongoing)
• are culturally appropriate
• recognize and legitimize Indigenous knowledge and skills
• contribute to tribal self-determination and knowledge
• start with interested and supportive faculty and staff
• are faculty-driven (with assistance from the assessment coordinator)
• are streamlined and simplified so that instructors’ and staff’s time may be used effectively
• include employees from appropriate segments of the college
• include students in their design
• result in a respectful and reciprocal relationship between the assessment coordinator and all staff
• build cohesion, collaboration, relationships, and trust among staff through a consultative process
• are conducted in a responsible and ethical manner
• are useful, relevant, and meaningful to the tribal college community
• educate administration, staff and faculty to improve their assessment skills
• report results internally in an ongoing way so that the information can be used to improve student success and learning (i.e., through meetings, reports, a website, email)
• initiate meaningful conversations
• create a shared vision for the future of the tribal college, based on common values
• redirect resources towards priorities outlined in the mission and goals
• increase the college’s responsiveness to the needs of the tribal community
• improve the instructional capacity of the college as well as its public image
• provide the basis for college planning and budgeting decisions
• demonstrate accountability, the responsible use of limited resources, to the public