Soka University has launched various efforts to adopt active learning (AL) to many of the courses it offers. In this program, we aim to enhance the quality of AL, thereby increasing students’ study hours outside of class and levels of understanding.
To ensure the success of this effort, we offer assessment courses (i.e. three assessment gates) that measure the outcomes of AL (e.g. basic skills) each year. Various indicators are used for assessment to review the outcomes and processes. During the review, teachers and students undergo peer assessment to see how much they each have contributed to the process of achieving the learning goals of the course, so that their self-assessment will be conducive to further improvements. The outcomes of AL are visualized as assessment materials, which enable faculty members to follow the PDCA cycle of teacher improvement. Since Soka endeavors to develop “creative individuals” who aspire to help others and create value for society, it is essential that our students develop the skills for constructive self-assessment. Hence, we will move ahead with the university-wide initiative for reforms.