Discusses departmental program reviews and evaluations in terms of the growing body of information on quality assessment application. Suggests five essential operational and substantive characteristics for inclusion in a departmental handbook. (KEH)

Describes an administrative operational system for internship programs leading to a justifiable return on investment in the areas of academic integrity, departmental image, and resource acquisition. (KEH)

Describes an "exit" course, Senior Seminar in Communicative Theories, developed for students majoring in Speech Communication at George Mason University. Outlines the evolution of this course and the case for adding such a course to speech communication curricula. (KEH)

Presents a broad overview of the assessment movement. Reviews several approaches to assessment including basic skills, general education, major, and student development. Considers the nature of assessment in the communication field. (KEH)

Provides background on the general issues of performance assessment and suggests intervention strategies for department chairs. (KEH)

Describes the creation of a set of outcome assessment guidelines recently developed for college and university theater programs. Categorizes outcomes in three ways: knowledge, skills, and attitudes. (KEH)

Examines Kean College's approaches to establishing principles, policies, and procedures which have led to a faculty-supported assessment program. Summarizes how faculty concerns were considered and policies were reviewed and established. Describes the faculty-centered organizational structure. (KEH)