Southern University and A&M College
Standard Five Evidence Packet 3
R4.3 Satisfaction of Completers
Standards Alignment: This packet, entitled Satisfaction of Completers, presents evidence for:
This evidence packet demonstrates how Southern University’s School of Education meets CAEP Standard R4.3 (Satisfaction of Completers) by providing evidence that program completers perceive their preparation as relevant to their responsibilities in the field and effective in equipping them for their roles as educators. The packet draws upon data from completer surveys conducted during the 2022-2023 academic year.
Evidence
1. Measuring Satisfaction with Preparation
1.1 Overview of Completer Survey
Southern University’s Educator Preparation Program (EPP) gathers feedback from program completers through a structured survey, which is administered at the end of the program. This survey is designed to assess the satisfaction of completers with the preparation they received, focusing on various aspects of their training, including planning, management, instructional practice, and professional responsibilities.
1.2 Survey Instruments and Methodology
• Relevance to CAEP Standards (R1 Criteria):
o The survey includes questions that align with the core competencies outlined in CAEP Standard R1, such as the learner and learning, content knowledge, instructional practice, professional responsibilities, and the integration of technology. Completers are asked to rate the extent to which the program prepared them in these areas, ensuring that the feedback is directly tied to the criteria in R1.
• Survey Questions and Response Options:
o Completers are asked to rate their preparation on a scale ranging from “Excellent” to “Non-Existent.” This scale allows the EPP to gauge the perceived quality of preparation in various domains.
1.3 Ensuring Inclusivity in Data Collection
• Inclusion of All Programs:
o The EPP ensures that the survey is administered to completers from all programs within the Teacher Preparation Program at Southern University. This inclusivity guarantees that the data collected is representative of the entire program, not just specific subgroups.
• Data Collection Cycle:
o The survey is part of a regular data collection cycle, with results analyzed annually to track trends over time. This approach allows the EPP to monitor changes in satisfaction levels and respond to any emerging issues promptly.
Southern University and A&M College
Standard Five Evidence Packet 3
2. Satisfaction Survey Results
2.1 Summary of Survey Results
The completer survey conducted during the 2022-2023 academic year provides insights into how graduates perceive their preparation:
• Opportunities to Acquire Various Skills:
o Completers were asked to rate the effectiveness of the program in helping them acquire skills related to planning, management, and school improvement. The majority of respondents rated their preparation as “Excellent” or “Adequate,” indicating a high level of satisfaction with the opportunities provided by the program.
• Effectiveness of Residency in Preparing for Student Learning:
o When asked about the effectiveness of their residency experience in preparing them to improve student learning, most completers rated it positively, with the majority selecting “Excellent” or “Adequate.”
2.2 Areas for Improvement
While the overall satisfaction is high, completers also provided feedback on areas where the program could be strengthened:
• Technological Integration: Some completers suggested that the program could improve in integrating technology into the curriculum more effectively.
• Student Intervention: Another area highlighted was the need for more focus on student intervention strategies.
• Planning and Differentiated Instruction: Completers indicated that additional training in planning, particularly in lesson planning and differentiated instruction, would be beneficial.
3. Ensuring the Effectiveness of Instruments and Methods
3.1
Alignment with CAEP Criteria
The survey instruments used by Southern University’s EPP are carefully designed to align with CAEP’s criteria for measuring completer satisfaction. This includes ensuring that the questions are specific to the competencies outlined in R1 and that they capture a comprehensive view of the completer’s experience.
3.2 Validity and Reliability of Survey Data
• Design and Validation: The survey questions are developed based on established educational standards and are regularly reviewed to ensure they remain relevant and valid. This process includes pilot testing and feedback from stakeholders to refine the questions.
Southern University and A&M College
Standard Five Evidence Packet 3
R4.3 Satisfaction of Completers
• Reliability: To ensure reliability, the survey is administered consistently across all programs and cohorts, and the data is analyzed using standardized methods.
3.3 Data Analysis and Interpretation
The survey data is analyzed to identify trends and patterns in completer satisfaction. This analysis helps the EPP understand the strengths and weaknesses of the program and guides continuous improvement efforts.
4. Compelling Evidence and Conclusions
4.1 Evidence of Satisfaction
The most compelling evidence of completer satisfaction includes:
• High Ratings of Preparation: The majority of completers rated their preparation as “Excellent” or “Adequate,” particularly in areas related to planning, instructional practice, and professional responsibilities.
• Positive Feedback on Residency: The residency component was particularly well-received, with completers noting its effectiveness in preparing them to improve student learning.
4.2 Lessons Learned and Program Improvements
Based on the survey results, Southern University’s EPP has identified several areas for improvement, such as enhancing technological integration and providing additional support for student intervention strategies. These insights are being used to refine the curriculum and ensure that future completers are even better prepared for their roles as educators.
Conclusions:
• The evidence demonstrates that Southern University’s EPP effectively prepares its completers for the challenges they encounter in the classroom. The high levels of satisfaction reported by completers suggest that the program is meeting its goals and that the feedback collected is being used to drive continuous improvement.