Assessing the Athletic Program

Assessment is critical for measuring the overall productivity of an athletic program. By submitting learning outcomes and assessment plans to the athletic director before the competition season, measures can be made during and after the season. These measures are essential for monitoring the student athlete’s progress throughout their athletic and academic term. Learning outcomes and assessments can measure critical elements such as, academic performance (grades), absences, productivity, work-ethic, and athletic results. The advantage to these assessments is that it allows for the athletic director to see the goals of each coach (and team) in an organized manner. Additionally, these assessments provide insight into areas which need improvement after a season. Because measuring the impact of a program is highly dependent on organization and planning, submitting learning outcomes and assessment plans is essential for keeping the coaches accountable for the progress of the student-athletes, the teams, and the athletic program as a whole.