The Five Dimensions of the SLU Experience are the framework adopted by the SLU community in the fall 2002 semester for student learning outcomes and assessment efforts.
The five dimensions flow from the University's Jesuit Catholic mission; are broad enough to encompass the diversity of the University's undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs; and offer the University community the flexibility to develop measurable student outcomes and assessment activities in a meaningful context.
The five dimensions express the University's expectations for student engagement in the SLU community. They communicate the University's hopes for students to develop both professionally and personally in the context of the mission.
The Five Dimensions in Practice: Sample Indicators of Engagement provide examples of student engagement for each of the five dimensions. These indicators are examples only; they are not comprehensive or exhaustive. Their purpose is to offer ideas for positioning student outcomes within the framework of the five dimensions.
Assessment Activities at Saint Louis University
Assessment at SLU occurs at the institutional, program, course, and classroom levels for the purposes of proving and improving student learning. In addition, assessment results aid the institution in advancing the strategic direction, Promoting Continuous Institutional Learning and Innovation. (SLU's strategic plan)
Institutional Level Assessment
The Office of the Provost conducts research that focuses on the University's effectiveness in engaging students in the five dimensions. Findings are used to identify areas for possible improvement in the learning environment. Alumni and graduating student surveys are designed to reflect the five dimensions. Results from surveys created externally such as the National Survey of Student Engagement are analyzed in the context of the dimensions. The dimensions also serve as a foundation for examining the effectiveness of SLU's first-year experience programs and for studying the undergraduate experience.
Program and Course Level Assessment
Saint Louis University faculty have established and are actively assessing student learning outcomes for their majors and courses using the framework of the Five Dimensions of the Saint Louis University Experience. Assessment results are utilized to improve courses and curriculum.
In addition, staff in student support areas have identified student outcomes and assessment practices in the context of the five dimensions for programs and services they provide. At the end of each fiscal year, the Deans of the Colleges and Schools submit annual assessment reports to the Office of the Provost.
These reports typically consist of specific enhancements and improvements in curriculum and programs based on findings from assessment activities.
Classroom Level Assessment
The Reinert Center for Teaching Excellence offers workshops on classroom assessment techniques and syllabus design.
