Writing Assessment - Truman State University

Writing Assessment

On May 7, 2002 the University ceased using the Sophomore Writing Experience as its writing assessment tool. An interim writing assessment was substituted during the interim period.

The new Writing Assessment began in Summer 2004 and takes a three-pronged approach. Click here to open a PDF file describing the assessment in further detail. The Writing Across the University Committee did not meet during the 2008 or 2009 fiscal years.

Who takes it?
Student writing samples can be obtained from every level.

When is it administered?
Samples are obtained in the fall and spring semesters and are evaluated in the summer and/or subsequent semesters.

How long does it take for a student to complete the assessment?
No time—the writing samples require no extra work by the students. Submissions are obtained through writing students have already completed through their coursework.

What office administers it?
The Writing Across the University Committee maintains oversight of the analytical and qualitative assessments.

Who originates the assessment?
A Writing Assessment Committee of faculty proposed the assessment in Fall 2006.

When are results typically available?
Some assessment data is currently available about the Analytical Assessment. The Collegial Review is still being refined, although some information exists concerning the pilot project.

What type of information is sought?
The Analytical Assessment identifies evidence demonstrating students’ knowledge and skills in writing described in the Learning Outcomes for Writing-Enhanced courses. The Writing Across the University Committee also reviews appropriate survey data (NSSE, GSQ, CSEQ) to assess students’ writing habits, attitudes, etc. Additionally, the collegial review of faculty-selected writing samples from students in their classes provides more qualitative data for faculty and other constituencies.

From whom are the results available?
The Writing Across the University Committee.

To whom are the results regularly distributed?
The campus community through reports, presentations, and the Assessment Almanac.

Are results available by department or discipline?
No.

Are results comparable to data of other universities?
No.

(The following are excerpts from each year's Assessment Almanac)

2007 Writing Assessment Results

2006 Writing Assessment Results

2005 Writing Assessment Results

2004 Writing Assessment Results

Interim Writing Assessment Results

Sophomore Writing Experience Reports

2002