Learning Outcomes and Assessment

At American Military University (AMU), assessment is a cornerstone of our commitment to academic excellence and student success. We view assessment not as a compliance exercise, but as a vital process that informs continuous improvement and advances our institutional mission. By systematically analyzing artifacts of student learning, we ensure that our programs foster the knowledge, skills, and dispositions needed for graduates to thrive in a dynamic global landscape.

To ensure that AMU students are prepared for success, learning outcomes are defined at three levels: course, degree program, and institution. 

Course Level Learning Outcomes

At the classroom level, student learning is assessed on the skills, values, knowledge, abilities, and objectives that students are expected to demonstrate upon completion of a course. Course-developed tests, student participation in discussion boards, student research projects/papers, simulations, and writing assignments are some of the assessments used to evaluate the effectiveness of AMU students achieving desired learning outcomes at the classroom level. Additionally, student feedback and Student Satisfaction Index results are used to monitor and develop teaching effectiveness and maintain and improve the overall quality of courses.

Program Level Learning Outcomes

Students are expected to achieve learning outcomes at the degree program level upon graduation from a particular degree program. Student learning at the degree program level is assessed throughout the program and in end-of-program experiences to ensure the student has achieved proficiency of the knowledge and skills expected of a professional in the respective discipline. Rubrics and standardized exams are examples of measures used to evaluate the learning outcomes and effectiveness of the curriculum at the degree program level.

Signature Skills

AMU students are expected to demonstrate proficiency in the following learning areas upon completion of any academic program in any discipline:

• Critical Thinking is the ability to think objectively and rationally, analyze and evaluate ideas, question assumptions, explore alternatives, and develop creative solutions to make informed decisions.
• Digital Literacy is the essential ability to understand, use, critically evaluate, and responsibly engage with digital technologies and artificial intelligence, equipping individuals for success in a technology-driven world.
• Growth Mindset is a dynamic, forward-thinking attitude essential for success in business and personal development. It emphasizes generating and implementing innovative ideas, processes, or products that create value, fostering resilience, adaptability, and differentiation in the job market.

Assessment of Student Learning Outcomes

AMU is committed to learning outcomes assessment and its impact on the quality of teaching and learning. The learning outcomes assessment cycle at AMU:

• Enables the University to evaluate the effectiveness of its academic courses and programs in terms of achieving the desired learning outcomes for its students.
• Is used for continuous improvement at all levels of the institution.
• Ensures that students are prepared for success in work and citizenship in a diverse, global society.

Outcomes assessment data is reported in the aggregate, ensuring the confidentiality of student work submitted for assessment. Through this comprehensive approach to assessment, AMU ensures that learning remains purposeful, measurable, and aligned with our mission.