How to Use Rubrics to Assess Gen Ed Outcomes

How to Use Rubrics to Assess Gen Ed Outcomes

🎙 Patrick M Whitehead 👥 192 📅 February 16, 2026 ⏱ 11 min 👁 5 📄 tutorial 🧭 2026-08-16
Available in: English (current) Français

Keywords

rubricassessmentgen edlearning outcomesAAC&U

Summary

The video, presented by Patrick M Whitehead, explains how to use rubrics to assess general education (Gen Ed) learning outcomes, specifically focusing on the mathematics and quantitative skills objective. Whitehead describes the process of interpreting a broad objective from the university system, breaking it down into specific competencies using the AAC&U VALUE rubrics (calculation, interpretation, representation), and then developing a rubric with a hierarchy of improvement. He discusses how rubrics can be used to assess student performance, identify areas of struggle, and design courses and activities that target specific skill levels. The video is a tutorial aimed at faculty and assessment teams, providing a practical example from ASU. It emphasizes the importance of aligning assessments with learning objectives and using rubric data to inform instruction.

125 words

Critical Evaluation

Value of the Information & Strength of the Argument

The video offers practical value for educators and assessment professionals by demonstrating a concrete method for assessing broad learning outcomes. The argumentation is clear and logical, walking the viewer through the process step-by-step. However, the presenter relies heavily on anecdotal evidence and personal experience rather than presenting empirical data or research findings. The argument would be stronger with specific examples of assessment results or references to published studies on rubric effectiveness.

80 words

Title / Content Match

The title accurately reflects the content: the video explains how to use rubrics to assess general education outcomes, using a specific example.

Quality & Reliability

7/10

The video provides a clear, practical explanation of rubric-based assessment for general education outcomes, based on the presenter's experience at ASU. It references the Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) VALUE rubrics, which are well-established. However, the video lacks formal citations or links to supporting documents, and the presenter's claims about student performance are anecdotal.

Key Moments

Cited Sources

Concurring Sources

  • AAC&U VALUE Rubrics — The presenter references these rubrics as the basis for the competencies.

Contribution & Novelties

The video provides a practical, step-by-step guide to using rubrics for assessing general education outcomes, which is valuable for educators new to this approach. It emphasizes the importance of breaking down broad objectives into specific competencies and using rubric data to inform teaching. The presenter’s experience at ASU adds a real-world perspective.

Pour aller plus loin :

  • AAC&U VALUE Rubrics — Official page for the VALUE rubrics, including the quantitative literacy rubric.
  • Understanding Rubrics — Article explaining the basics of rubric design and use.
  • Assessment and Rubrics — Resource on creating and using rubrics in education.

96 words

Radar Profile

The radar profile shows moderate scores across all dimensions, with slightly higher quality of information and lower technical level. This indicates a balanced but not highly specialized video, suitable for a general academic audience.

Reliability 6/10