Faculty in the Department of Sociology, Anthropology and Social Work held a retreat at the Brookley Campus on March 2, 2006. The retreat focused on improving assessment methods for each discipline and developing learning goals and objectives for the 2006-2007 academic year. The program included a welcome by Dr. Steve Picou, Department Chair and a presentation by Beatriz Joseph, University Assessment Coordinator, on "Perspectives on Assessment". Dr. Nicole Flynn and Dr. Roma Hanks gave a presentation on the "Current Status of Assessment in the Department" and faculty met in discipline-based groups to develop specific assessment models.

After lunch, representative from the discipline-based groups reported back to the faculty regarding specific goals, objectives and activities that would be appropriate for implementing in the future. Various assessment methods were discussed, including student surveys, capstone courses, writing portfolios, focus groups and alumni surveys. Assessment plans and timelines were also developed. Ms. Joseph stayed throughout the retreat, offering advice and guidance to the numerous faculty proposals that were made. The retreat was a success in that faculty became more aware of the importance and significance of assessment for improving the delivery of learning objectives and improving retention for both graduate and undergraduate majors in the department.