Assessment Alchemy: Transforming Data into Action-Why It's Mostly Myth, and What to Do About It

There is evidence that institutions and faculty are doing more to assess their programs and their innovations. But subsequent evidence that assessment and research are useful for guiding productive changes in teaching practice and that they improve the student learning experience remains elusive. This presentation will share the story of several different studies that have produced little impact on practice despite substantial or significant results. In comparison, a few (sometimes small) studies have offered insights and avenues that have demonstrated an impact, though not necessarily in ways we might expect. This session will explore conditions and strategies that can make a difference.