Assessment Tools & Resources
This page provides templates, guides, and resources for assessment planning, reporting, and continuous improvement. All templates are designed for use with Watermark Planning & Self-Study and align with SACSCOC accreditation requirements.
Watermark Planning & Self-Study
Our Assessment Management Platform
Wiley University uses Watermark Planning & Self-Study (PSS) as our centralized platform for assessment, program review, and accreditation documentation. All assessment plans and reports should be entered directly into Watermark.
Watermark Modules We Use:
- Planning & Self-Study - Assessment plans, reports, program review
- Course Evaluations & Surveys - Student feedback collection
- Student Learning & Licensure - SLO tracking and outcomes
Key Features:
- Curriculum mapping with Smart Connections
- Automated data flow between modules
- Evidence library for documentation
- Built-in SACSCOC compliance tracking
Contact the Office of Institutional Assessment & Effectiveness for training and account setup. We offer one-on-one sessions and group workshops each semester.
Templates & Forms
These templates align with Watermark PSS formats and SACSCOC requirements. Use them for planning before entering data into Watermark, or for offline reference.
Academic Assessment Templates
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Assessment Plan Template Program assessment plan aligned with Watermark PSS formatView/Print
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Annual Assessment Report Template Annual report template with SACSCOC-aligned sectionsView/Print
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Program Review Self-Study Template Comprehensive 5-year program review templateView/Print
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General Guide & Handbook Template Standard template for creating IR & Effectiveness documentationPDF
Administrative Assessment Templates
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Administrative Unit Evaluation Template Annual evaluation for administrative and support unitsView/Print
SACSCOC Compliance Resources
Fifth-Year Interim Report Preparation
Wiley University is preparing for our SACSCOC Fifth-Year Interim Report. The templates and resources on this page support compliance with the standards reviewed in the Fifth-Year Report.
Key Standards for Assessment
| Standard | Description | Template |
|---|---|---|
| 8.1 | Student Achievement (Institutional) | IR Data Support |
| 8.2.a | Student Outcomes: Educational Programs | Assessment Report |
| 7.3 | Administrative Effectiveness | Admin Evaluation |
Watermark Planning & Self-Study includes built-in templates for SACSCOC compliance documentation. Your annual assessment data entered in Watermark becomes evidence for accreditation reviews. Learn more about Watermark & SACSCOC.
Assessment Rubrics
Rubrics provide consistent criteria for evaluating student work. These can be imported into Watermark for use in assessment.
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Written Communication Rubric Assess writing skills (adapted from AAC&U VALUE)View
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Critical Thinking Rubric Assess critical thinking (adapted from AAC&U VALUE)View
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Oral Communication Rubric Assess presentation and speaking skillsView
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Quantitative Literacy Rubric Assess quantitative reasoning skillsView
The VALUE rubrics from AAC&U are widely used for assessing essential learning outcomes. Access the full collection of 16 rubrics.
Training & Workshops
Professional Development
We offer workshops and training sessions throughout the year, including Watermark training and assessment best practices.
Upcoming Workshops
| Workshop | Date | Registration |
|---|---|---|
| Watermark PSS: Getting Started | February 1, 2026 | Register |
| Assessment Report Writing Workshop | February 8, 2026 | Register |
| Watermark: Entering Assessment Results | March 5, 2026 | Register |
| Closing the Loop: Using Results for Improvement | April 2, 2026 | Register |
| Program Review in Watermark | April 16, 2026 | Register |
On-Demand Watermark Resources
External Resources
Accreditation & Compliance
- SACSCOC - Regional Accreditor
- Fifth-Year Interim Report - SACSCOC Resources
- THECB - Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board
Need Assistance?
Our office provides support for Watermark, assessment planning, and accreditation documentation. Contact us for one-on-one consultation, training, or questions.
Runell J. King, Ph.D.
Vice President for Institutional Research/Effectiveness & Strategic Retention