Whom do we test?

All students graduating in both the fall and spring semesters of the testing and reporting year must be tested (in fact, a hold is placed on a student’s graduation if she/he does not participate).  While THEC (Tennessee Higher Education Commission) would prefer that all students graduating in a year (which, for them, runs as Summer/Fall/Spring) be tested, it is not required for you to test summer graduates (UT has traditionally been granted a waiver from THEC for the summer testing requirement).

What types of tests can we use?

There are several options that you can use.  Many departments opt for a locally developed instrument.  Others use a capstone course or culminating experience as their major field assessment.  Still others employ one of the many standardized tools available on the market.  The choice of what assessment method you use is entirely up to you.

When do we test?

This is often dictated by the type of test that is used.  Obviously a locally developed instrument can be administered at the discretion of the department while many licensure-type tests are controlled by central agencies.  On the whole, tests can be offered at times that are convenient for both faculty and students provided that all eligible students (both fall and spring graduates) are tested. 

What is the general calendar or timeline for the Planning Year?

For those using a standardized test, the main goal during the planning year is to confirm the choice of instruments.  For nationally scheduled tests, it might also be necessary to confirm available test dates.

For those using a local test, there are some other factors to consider.  If a department is using an established test, then the Planning Year should be used to make minor revisions so that the instrument is ready for administration the following year.  If a new test is being developed, then the Planning Year is used for test construction, external review, and baseline administration. 

Do we have to baseline our test?

Baseline testing is required when a department develops a new local test.  It is optional for those departments who are making revisions of less than 20% on an old test and for those who choose to begin using a new nationally normed standardized test.  We do advise that departments deciding to use a new standardized test also conduct a baseline so two methods of score comparison are open to them in reporting.   

What do we get from major field testing?

Overall, UT can earn up to $1,125,000 based on how well students perform on their major field tests.  For each area that tests, a one-time flat bonus as well as a performance-based bonus is appropriated. 

How do we know who to test?

Some time in the middle of each semester, you will receive a list of those students who have “Applied to Graduate” from OIRA.  It is your responsibility to make sure that everyone on that list is accounted for.  In addition, departments should make general announcements to seniors that could potentially be graduating to inform them of this testing requirement in order to make that list as complete as possible.  Remember, all seniors graduating from departments undergoing major field testing must participate or a hold will be placed on their graduation. 

How do we notify students that they need to take the test?

Notification of students is the responsibility of the department.  Along with the Applied to Graduate list, departments will also receive mailing labels for each student on the list that can be used to aid in the notification process.  Other notification processes include class announcements and email.  Whatever process is used, remember that all graduating seniors must test, so be sure that your notification method will reach everyone. 

Can students be exempted from major field testing?

As stated earlier, every student graduating from a program undergoing major field testing must test.  However, there are always exceptions to every rule.  Occasionally there are circumstances that would allow a student to be exempted from major field testing.  It is up to the department to determine if a student should be granted an exemption.  However, exemptions should only be granted for extenuating circumstances, not for simple inconvenience. 

As a department, what can we do to maximize performance?

Discussion sometimes occurs regarding whether departments should help students prepare for taking a major field test.  There are at least as many differing schools of thought about this as there are colleges!  Some areas using national exams that are also required for licensure have held study sessions.  Other areas have held informal Q&A sessions to help explain the test and the rationale for using it.  Whatever the decision, common sense and good judgment should prevail. 

What can we do to encourage participation?

One of the easiest ways to encourage participation is, if possible, to schedule multiple test dates at various times.  This will allow for variability in students’ schedules.  Many departments have also offered additional incentives to students, some based on mere participation and others on actual performance.  For example, in those areas where a capstone project or experience is used, students receive actual course credit.  Other areas have offered refreshments or snacks during or after the exam.  Still others have incorporated a prize system in which the students who earn the highest scores receive gift certificates of some sort.  These additional incentive programs are left up to the sole discretion of the department.