Standard I. Mission, Goals, and Objectives

I.3 Within the context of these Standards each program is judged on the degree to which it attains its objectives. In accord with the mission of the school, clearly defined, publicly stated, and regularly reviewed program goals and objectives form the essential frame of reference for meaningful external and internal evaluation. The evaluation of program goals and objectives involves those served: students, faculty, employers, alumni, and other constituents.

Students and prospective students are made aware of the School’s mission and goals, as well as program goals, through the School’s and MLIS Web sites, at orientation, and through initial advising sessions.  The School’s mission and the MLIS program goals guide all assessment and evaluation activities. For example, the School’s Annual Plan specifically delineates the connections between University goals, the School’s mission and goals, and step-by-step proposed activities to ensure reaching those goals and contributing to the School’s mission. The faculty annual reviews are framed in terms of advancing the program and School goals, particularly noting the success of the School. The mandatory Learning Outcomes Assessment specifically addresses how each evaluated course provides students with knowledge and skills as required by the profession and as expressed through the ALA Standards.

As described more fully in Standard I.1 and Standard V.4, the iSchool administration involves representatives of the entire iSchool community in governance (through the SIS Council) and various assessment activities (through surveys of students, graduated students and employers). The School has alumni representatives on the Board of Visitors and the Industry Advisory Council, both of which provide invaluable advice on program development and enhancement. Alumni opinions are also gathered through surveys and meetings/focus groups at regional and national conferences. Employers of graduating students are also represented on the Board of Visitors and the Industry Advisory Council.