Track B - Semiotic Systems Requirement Assessment Plan
Track B: Semiotic Systems (SS) is one of three options students can take to fulfill the track requirement of the non-sequential elements of MPSL. The SS track consist of three courses chosen from computer languages, natural language processing, linguistics, mathematics, symbolic logic, or music theory. At least one course must be 200 level or above. No more than one course may fulfill requirements for the major.
Learning Outcome Goals
The learning outcome goals for students taking semiotic studies (track B) are that students will take three related courses (9 credits) from computer languages, natural language processing, linguistics, mathematics, symbolic logic, or music theory to:
- develop depth of learning in an area of semiotics studies, and
- demonstrate advanced levels of development in the chosen area.
Snapshot
Of 252 graduating seniors in the spring of 2006, 31% meet the track B SS requirements. In 2006, records of graduating seniors indicate that the four majors that selected this track more than other majors included:
|
Track B seniors |
Seniors in major |
Percentage in Track B |
Biology |
22 |
28 |
79% |
Chemistry |
5 |
11 |
45% |
Computer Science |
3 |
3 |
100% |
Business |
17 |
25 |
68% |
The Learning Story
There is not a single learning story for Track B, SS. Some majors are using it as an opportunity to take more courses in their chosen fields of study. Faculty do not design courses with this requirement in mind, so there is no deliberate learning experience planned for this requirement.
Assessment Methods & Data
There is currently no readily available method for collecting data on track B or C. This is due to the fact that the courses are not cross listed as Track B or C courses. What makes it even more difficult is the same course may be taken by students to fulfill different requirement in their program. There is no data other than a record of courses students are taking to fulfill this requirement.
Improvement Plans
There is no faculty leadership or oversight for this requirement, so it is unlikely that an annual report will be created or reviewed until reorganization of leadership (or changes in the University Studies curriculum) are established. |
