Outcomes assessment in higher education: Using assessment instruments to improve business curriculum and instruction at Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) schools

This descriptive study addressed the question: How are Association of Collegiate Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP) accredited schools using outcomes assessment measures to improve business curriculum and instruction? Administrators from 85 ACBSP accredited institutions within the United States and abroad were surveyed by questionnaire on how they used outcomes assessment instruments to improve business curriculum and instruction. The questionnaire used for this study is a thirty-three (33) item, self-administered survey that includes three (3) demographic items, eight (8) general items, eighteen (18) Likert-type items, two (2) ranking items, and two (2) open ended items.; Overall, administrators used the outcomes assessment instruments recommended by ACBSP and identified in the questionnaire to improve business curriculum and instruction (i.e., the Major Field Test in Business, Faculty Developed Test, Senior Capstone Course, and Graduating Senior Survey). Administrators also used the results from other norm referenced assessments, authentic assessments, and surveys for curriculum improvement. Specific examples were provided on how the results contributed to curriculum improvement.; While implementing outcomes assessment tools, administrators found it difficult to find time to administer and compile assessment materials. However, faculty involvement in planning for curriculum changes was an essential factor for success of outcomes assessment programs.; These findings suggest that faculty are instrumental in implementing curriculum changes at ACBSP accredited institutions. Curriculum changes are implemented based on using the teaching-improvement loop where teaching influences learning and the assessment of learning outcomes are used to improve teaching and learning (Middle States Commission on Higher Education, 1996). Moreover, these findings suggest that institutions accredited by ACBSP use the outcomes assessment instruments outlined in the association guidelines; thereby helping the association accomplish its mission of promoting continuous improvement of business education.