Spring 2013 Course SLO Review

GEOL 10 - Physical Geology - Stage 5 - Chris Lewis

Assessment

Assessment Methods	Analysis of exam, quiz, or homework items linked to specific SLOs Direct observation of performances, practical exams, group work Classroom response systems (such as iClickers or computers)
Assessment Description	In addition to instructor specific assessments such as weekly quizzes, exams, group work and iClicker questions, we conducted a common mid-semester program level assessment and a common end-of-semester course level assessment. By common, we mean that an identical assessment tool was used in all sections. The program level assessment has been detailed in our program level report. The course level common assessment is a 15 question multiple choice format survey that we have been using for several years. We made a slight modification to one question this semester as a result of consistently low performance and concerns over wording and a diagram used in the question.
Learning Outcomes	A. Synthesize various data points and natural phenomena to understand the origin of the Earth. B. Evaluate and interpret the model ofPlate Tectonics based on global geologic phenomena and features. C. Diagram and explain features and processes associated with each type ofplate boundary. D. Compare and contrast minerals and the three main rock types and their relationship to the rock cycle and natural geologic processes. E. Identify, classify, and intrepret the formation history ofcommon rock-forming minerals, and igneous, sedimentary, and metamorphic rocks. F. Compare and contrast the various types ofvolcanoes ~ their geologic settings, eruptive style, and associated landforms and hazards. G. Use the principles ofrelative and radiometric dating to interpret the geologic history ofa sequence ofrocks and structures. H. Experience and be able to demonstrate the magnitude ofgeologic time. K. Diagram and evaluate the structure ofthe Earth's interior, including physical and chemical layers, heat, magnetic fields, and gravity and the data that support this understanding. L. Diagram and evaluate the formation ofcontinents through accretion ofterranes and use this understanding to interpret the variations in continental materials worldwide. M. Relate rock weathering, mass wasting, streams, glaciers, and waves to the development ofmajor geologic features and phenomena. N. Evaluatetheeffectsofhowhumansinteractwithandtrytocontrolavarietyof geologic processes such as rivers flooding and sand movement on beaches.
Number of Sections	3
Number of Instructors	3
Number of Students	~70

Data Analysis

Data Shared With	Instructors of the same course (at CCSF) Faculty and staff within our department
Data Sharing Methods	Face-to-face meetings Email
Data Summary	The majority (>70%) of students in all sections correctly answered questions relating to SLO's C, D, B, H, F, and M. There was some variability between sections in terms of mastery of the remaining SLO's, but several common weaknesses were identified that have historically been challenging for students to master. These questions relate to SLO K and E (question 7 regarding S-waves and questions 9 and 10 regarding rock forming processes).
Analysis Summary	We looked at data from each section and question and determined that if a clear majority (>70%) answered questions pertaining to a particular outcome correctly that outcome was achieved.
Next Steps Planned	Question 9 pertaining to rock formation in a subduction zone has been re-worded for the Spring assessment to see if the question itself is problematic, or if the outcome is not being met for other reasons. Other changes being implemented include incorporating an online activity to help students with SLO K and the fate of S-waves as they travel through Earth and more emphasis on other rock-forming processes (SLO D and E). Some minor changes have also been made to the course outline and future SLO assessments will reflect these changes. These improvements will be implemented in Fall 2013.
Learning Outcomes	K, D and E. See previous answers for explanation.

Changes

Details	Course outline was revised to more explicitly address surface processes and the scientific method. Individual instructors also added more activities and lecture focus to address historically problematic SLOs
Learning Outcomes	A, G, D and E.

GE Area C Details

Learning Outcomes	No answer
Number Students: Proficient	No answer
Number Students: Developing	No answer
Number Students: No Evidence	No answer
Criteria	No answer
Extra Details	No answer

Tentative Future Plans

Term	Summer 2013
Activities	Assessment (measurement) of outcomes
More Details	One section will be offered this summer and we will assess using the same 15 question instrument we modified in Spring.

SLO Details Storage Location

HARD COPY - In a department filing system (department office)
ELECTRONIC COPY - On a department web server or shared document system

Additional Highlights

We've learned that there are several concepts in this course that students consistently find challenging, often relating to the physics of buoyancy and mechanical waves. It's been an interesting and engaging process to try to resolve these problematic areas of understanding. We've also benefited from discussions and sharing of teaching methods among faculty.

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