A Comprehensive Assessment Plan for Professional Preparation Programs in Health Education at Eastern Illinois University

Federal- and state-mandated criteria for accountability have promoted an "assessment movement" in higher education. The federal focus caused higher education's regional accrediting bodies to place greater emphasis on assessment for institutional accountability. Numerous approaches have been identified for the assessment process including comprehensive examinations, evaluation by alumni and internship preceptors, and self-report data by students. The Role Delineation Project Curriculum Framework also has been useful in assessing curricula. Strategies used in a comprehensive assessment plan for the Health Studies Dept. at Eastern Illinois University include focus group interviews, Departmental Advisory Council review, and assessment by internship preceptors. Data indicate the professional preparation program adequately prepares students in Responsibilities I, II, III, IV, and VII. Further consideration will be given to revising the curriculum to include material to prepare students in competencies required for Responsibilities V and VI.