Science, Technology, and Society Degree Program

Assessment Plan

December 2019

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The assessment plan for the B.S. in Science, Technology, and Society (STS) program consists of two primary components:

1. A biannual review of the core curriculum is conducted by the STS Curriculum Committee. Course materials are reviewed and evaluated by STS faculty to ensure that learning outcomes are being addressed in core courses and that student performance meets department standards.  Deficiencies or opportunities for program enhancements identified during the curriculum review may result in recommendations for changes in course requirements, goals, or procedures.

2. The Science, Technology, and Society two-semester capstone experience focuses on planning, preparation, and completion of a major research project, and culminates in a research paper, oral defense, and poster presentation of the student’s work.

• a. STS capstone projects are completed under the guidance of a three-person committee composed of the student’s academic advisor, an expert representative in the research area (either internal or external to South Dakota Mines), and an STS representative.
• b. Student research presentations are done in an open colloquium before an audience of peers and STS faculty, which provides an opportunity for consistent review and assessment of all capstone projects.

Program Objectives

December 2019

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PROGRAM OBJECTIVE 1:  Students will develop a well-defined sense of their professional identities and goals.

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Students will select and implement a curricular program of study that reflects and integrates their intended professional focus.

Assessment Method:  The student’s STS advisor will review, assess, and approve or require adjustments to the student’s Letter of Intent and completed STS worksheet.

Assessment Method:  The STS Curriculum Committee will review student Letters of Intent and STS worksheets each semester, and provide approval of those found to meet programmatic standards.

Assessment Method:  STS faculty will conduct exit interviews with graduating seniors to determine each student’s perception of development and progress toward meeting goals and expectations.

2. Students will receive consistent, knowledgeable advising.

Assessment Method:  STS students will complete an Advising Survey as sophomores in STS 201 and again as seniors, in conjunction with their capstone project.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVE 2:  Students will possess and apply the broadly-based education and basic skills required to achieve their goals.

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Students will design, conduct, and present senior capstone projects that reflect the student’s professional career goals and integrate the coursework leading to the degree.

Assessment Method:  STS 401 and STS 498 faculty will review and evaluate the capstone projects using written and oral presentation rubrics.
 

PROGRAM OBJECTIVE 3:  Students will be prepared to contribute as professionals and citizens in their communities.

Student Learning Outcomes:

1. Science, Technology, and Society graduates will demonstrate interest in and ability to contribute to their communities.

Assessment Method:  Sophomore and senior year surveys to review professional and community service activities; alumni surveys to review professional service activities.