BIO 11 - The Science of the living organism - Stage 5 - Calvin Hom
Assessment
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Assessment Description | Early in the Spring semester, Bio 11 classes were administered a quiz prior and after lectures covering the scientific method and the domains of life. The quiz consisted of ten multiple-choice and true-false questions; neither of the quizzes was pre-announced to the class. Examples of questions 1.A scientific explanation that is still being tested is called a: A. hypothesis B. theory C. law D. axiom 2.A scientific explanation that is well-accepted and that allows for exceptions is called a: A. hypothesis B. theory C. law D. axiom 3.A scientific explanation that allows for no exceptions is called a A. hypothesis B. theory C. law |
Learning Outcomes | All:Linked analysis of exams,quiz and home work items linked to SLOs. The following SLOs were taken into consideration with special emphasis. D. Compare the characteristics of the domains and the kingdoms of life L. Appraise the scientific method and the use of control groups and hypotheses in scientific experimentation |
Number of Sections | 5 lec (or lec-lab sections) |
Number of Instructors | 5 |
Number of Students | ~150 |
Data Analysis
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Data Sharing Methods |
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Data Summary | The mean score on the pre-test was 60% and the mean score on the post-test was 76%, an improvement of 16%. It is likely that greater improvement could have been achieved if the students had been explicitly instructed to review and study the lecture material to prepare for the post-test. |
Analysis Summary | A detailed item analysis revealed that student performance on the post-test had improved in all ten of the questions. Additionally more students had began the course with a greater understanding of the scientific method (possibly from previous science courses) than of domains. |
Next Steps Planned | It was determined that students demonstrated improved achievement for the SLO's that were assessed. In future semesters, instructors will focus on other SLO's that have not yet been addressed. |
Learning Outcomes | All. |
Changes
Details | The SLOs that were addressed in Spring 2013 were D.Compare the characteristics of the domains and the kingdoms of life. L. Appraise the scientific method and the use of control groups and hypotheses in scientific experimentation. They are overarching concepts in general biology.Pre lecture and post test quizzes were administered to evaluate the outcome of student learning and to strategize improvement of the learning experience of students. |
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Learning Outcomes | Refer to the previous answer. |
GE Area C Details
Learning Outcomes | 1.Communicate scientific ideas and theories effectively. 2.Demonstrate an understanding of the scientific method. |
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Number Students: Proficient | 114 |
Number Students: Developing | 26 |
Number Students: No Evidence | 10 |
Criteria | Early in the Spring semester, Bio 11 classes were administered a quiz prior and after lectures covering the scientific method and the domains of life. The quiz consisted of ten multiple-choice and true-false questions; neither of the quizzes was pre-announced to the class. The mean score on the pre-test was 60% and the mean score on the post-test was 76%, an improvement of 16%. It is likely that greater improvement could have been achieved if the students had been explicitly instructed to review and study the lecture material to prepare for the post-test. |
Extra Details | A detailed item analysis revealed that student performance on the post-test had improved in all ten of the questions. Additionally more students had began the course with a greater understanding of the scientific method (possibly from previous science courses) than of domains. |
Tentative Future Plans
Term | Fall 2013 |
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Activities |
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More Details | This coming semester, all Bio 11 instructors will administer a pre- and post-test covering the topic of bioenergetics, one of more challenging course topics for most students. Multiple-choice questions will cover enzymes, ATP, cellular respiration, and photosynthesis. The pre-test will occur early in the semester before any of these topics will be introduced. The post-test will occur after students have been tested on these topics during a midterm or another exam. |
SLO Details Storage Location
- HARD COPY - In my personal filing system (my office)
- ELECTRONIC COPY - In my electronic filing system (hard drive or web server)
Additional Highlights
The SLO gives structure,helps to design assessment methods to analyze the learning outcome which is beneficial for the faculty as well as the students.The faculty can structure the course to address the SLOs,design and facilitate the process of learning.They can assess the learning outcome by analyzing data and plan for continuos improvement.This process prevents stagnation and opens up
opportunities to make the courses more meaningful.
The SLOs provides students with map, information and tools to succeed in the course.