Evaluation is often mistakenly used synonymously with assessment. However, the key to understanding evaluation is how it differs from assessment by its contrasts of content and orientation.
- Assessment targets the improvement of learning using a procedural method over a period of time. It provides information about how students are mastering the content being taught.
- Evaluation focuses on the end product or quality of what is learned.
The College of Medicine - Phoenix uses the following data-driven decision making model to evaluate its programs:
Faculty and Course Evaluation
At the College of Medicine - Phoenix, faculty and course evaluations are provided online to students to submit their feedback about each block, course and clerkship throughout the entire medical program. During the preclinical curriculum, students evaluate faculty on a weekly basis following the preceding week of instruction. Student feedback is also solicited at the midpoint and end of each block pertaining to its organization, instructional materials, exam pertinence and delivery methods. Upon completion of each individual clerkship and course, student evaluations are also obtained. Data gathered from student input is reviewed and used to improve the learning environment* in the given areas, accompanied by student focus group feedback where concerns are noted.
* The learning environment includes both formal learning activities and the attitudes, values, and informal "lessons" conveyed by individuals who interact with the medical student.