Why Portfolio Assessment?

In an effort to improve evaluation of how you and the program are doing, we now have a portfolio assessment system. In the past we used the senior year Major Field Achievement Test but found it did not adequately measure what students have been learning. The portfolio system allows you and your adviser to monitor your progress in relation to specific UWS sociology program objectives.  You and your adviser will work together each year to mark your progress on 5 criteria and identify areas for future development. As the assessment will be keyed to your personal program, you will have an important share in the evaluation.

When and how?

Sign up with your adviser for early advisement then complete the questions listed below.  You will discuss the portfolio as part of the advisement process leading to your fall registration.

Please take an hour or so to assess where you stand in respect of the following sociological skills. We will discuss these questions during advisement prior to registration for fall 2000 classes or graduation. Please bring copies of work you think are relevant for the portfolio file and discussion with your adviser.
 

Criteria

1/ Knowledge of concepts, terminology, theories and significant research.

In what areas and to what extent has your sociological knowledge developed over the past year? Examples: courses or subject areas that have in which you've made the most progress, reading/practice outside the classroom that have sociological significance, areas in which you feel you need to develop your knowledge.

2/ Applying sociological skills outside the classroom setting.

What organizations or activities do you engage in outside the classroom which utilize sociological skills? Examples: Sociology Club or professional organizations, civic organizations, internships, social movements, volunteer work (Casda, Crisis Hotline, etc.).

3/ Ability to plan and execute sociological analysis.

To what extent have you developed an ability to design and carry out research or theoretcal projects? Examples: an interest that you have taken from initial curiosity to completed project, a paper which you feel reflects your ability to organize and carry out projects.

4/ Skills of critical thinking

How have your basic skills in reading, logic, awareness of assumptions, hypothetical and abstract thinking developed over the year? Take a look at analytical or theoretical papers and portions of written or oral work demonstrating these skills.

5/ Sociological imagination

The ability to frame problems in a sociological manner and identify solutions. Can you cite instances in which you countered a common sense myth with a sociological explanation? What major concepts, theories or substantive findings have you studied in one class and then put to use in another class or discipline?

Thanks!
Your Sociology Faculty.