University of South Alabama Presents at 2024 Assessment Institute
Posted on October 29, 2024 by Michelle Hale
At the recent 2024 Assessment Institute in Indianapolis, Indiana, Julie M. Estis, Ph.D., executive director of academic enhancement and associate professor of speech-language pathology, and David S. Williams, Ph.D., MPA, assistant dean for institutional and academic success in the Office of Academic Planning, led a workshop titled “LevelUP Student Learning and Success with ePortfolios: Making the Most of What You Have.” The Assessment Institute is the nation’s largest event dedicated to assessment and improvement in higher education.
Their presentation focused on the integration of ePortfolios as a high-impact practice to support student learning and success. They showcased strategies for leveraging ePortfolios to enhance both academic and co-curricular experiences, providing insights on how institutions can maximize existing resources to improve student engagement and outcomes. A key highlight was the Whiddon College of Medicine’s participation in the university’s institution-wide Quality Enhancement Plan (QEP), demonstrating the transformative role of ePortfolios in competency-based education.
“Our goal was to provide practical strategies for institutions looking to implement or enhance ePortfolio initiatives,” said Dr. Estis. “By sharing our experiences at South Alabama, we hope to inspire other educators to use ePortfolios as a tool for deeper learning and professional development.”
Dr. Williams added, “The ability to document and reflect on learning experiences through ePortfolios is invaluable for students. Our workshop emphasized how faculty and administrators can effectively integrate this practice into their programs to better support student success.”
The Assessment Institute, hosted by Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis (IUPUI), is an annual gathering of higher education professionals focused on best practices in assessment, accreditation, and continuous improvement. Presenters from institutions across the country share their expertise in student learning assessment, institutional effectiveness, and innovative teaching methodologies.