The value of 360-degree evaluation in higher education: Lesson’s learned from four project-based courses

Abstract Information: This presentation offers insights from a study of the value of 360-degree evaluation assignments within higher education, focusing on four project-based public administration courses offered in Spring 2024. By employing this performance evaluation approach, our study sought to enrich undergraduate and graduate students' learning experiences within and outside of evaluation, to promote curriculum alignment, and to contribute to program and unit-level learning outcomes assessment. Diverse student groups from both graduate and undergraduate levels (two courses respectively) collaboratively developed their 360-degree evaluation method within their project groups. Grounded in the logic of evaluation, this method enabled students to assess their individual performance, evaluate their peers, and reflect on the overall group performance. Through an exploratory approach, we analyzed artifacts generated by students, including group-designed evaluation methods and individual 360-degree evaluation reports. The study's key findings illuminate the value of the 360-degree assignment as an equitable and inclusive assessment tool. This method empowered students to leverage their unique capabilities and developmental needs, fostering a more comprehensive understanding of their learning journey. Additionally, our research delved into individual students’ contributions to final deliverables and assessed the assignment's impact on accountability, engagement, and collaborative learning within student groups. Attendees of our session can anticipate actionable insights into implementing 360-degree evaluation methodologies within their own academic courses. We will provide practical recommendations for fostering student collaboration, overcoming implementation challenges, and leveraging our findings to enhance curriculum design and delivery. Moreover, we will offer concrete examples to illustrate the real-world application and transformative impact of this method. Attendees will also have access to downloadable templates and step-by-step guides, facilitating seamless integration into their educational practices. Join us as we share our research findings, exchange best practices, and empower educators to revolutionize student learning experiences through the use of innovative evaluation approaches as course assignments. Together, let's embark on a journey towards fostering excellence and inclusivity in higher education.