Abstract
Purpose: This article describes the development and implementation of an assessment culture in a US pharmacy school, highlighting the associated challenges. Method: The school employed various strategies to foster an assessment culture, including meticulous planning, analyzing best practices, providing resources and financial support, and ensuring stakeholder participation. Faculty and staff received training and professional development, and an assessment committee was formed to oversee the implementation process. The committee's role was to utilize assessment results for decision-making and improving student learning outcomes. Regular feedback and progress reports were provided to stakeholders to ensure a smooth and efficient assessment process. Results: Effective leadership, faculty buy-in, collaboration, shared accountability, and adequate resources were identified as crucial for establishing and maintaining an assessment culture. The assessment outcomes led to significant improvements in instructional design, delivery methods, and assessments across ten specific courses. The school also achieved program-level advancements in strategic planning, admissions processes, and faculty development initiatives. Conclusion: Sustaining an assessment culture requires a well-developed assessment plan, active participation from faculty and students, sharing of results with stakeholders, using results for program enhancement, and compliance with accreditation standards. This study serves as a valuable resource for other educational institutions seeking to develop and implement assessment plans aligned with their program goals and accreditation requirements.
Recommended Citation
Islam, Mohammed A. and Yang, Suhui
(2023)
"Establishing a Culture of Assessment in A New US Pharmacy School: Lessons Learned,"
Health Professions Education: Vol. 9:
Iss.
4, Article 6.
Available at:
https://hpe.researchcommons.org/journal/vol9/iss4/6
