Evaluating the Effectiveness of an Academic Success Program: Showcasing the Importance of Theory to Practice

Abstract

To provide an example of outcomes assessment that aligns with student affairs standards (Finney & Horst, 2019a), we share our process of assessing a mandated eight-week program for students on academic probation. Furthermore, our process highlights the value of using existing theory and research to inform assessment and program redesign efforts (Pope et al., 2019). Using a high-quality theory-based measure, we assessed several student learning and development outcomes (e.g., institutional commitment, academic self-efficacy) that theory and research indicated are necessary for students to achieve academic success. Based on the outcomes assessment results, we identified which aspects of the program seemed to be working and which aspects needed improvement. Finally, we close by providing recommendations for other professionals seeking to build and assess high-quality student affairs programs informed by theory and research.