Learning Goal Assessment

Learning Goal Assessment in HelioCampus

The Learning Goal Assessment (LGA) Module in HelioCampus enables schools and departments to systematically track, evaluate, and report student learning outcomes. By integrating directly with Canvas rubrics, the module automates the collection and aggregation of performance data across courses and programs. This continuous measurement framework supports longitudinal analysis of student achievement, facilitates cross-sectional comparisons, and streamlines the presentation of learning outcome data for accreditation reviews, program improvement, and institutional reporting.

Getting Started

In academic year 2025–2026, Learning Goal Assessment module in HelioCampus is being piloted by select schools and departments ahead of broader institutional rollout. Schools interested in participating or learning more about the implementation timeline are encouraged to contact OTEAR at otear@rutgers.edu.

To initiate the process, each participating unit should prepare its Program Learning Outcomes and a complete Curriculum Map. OTEAR will then establish a dedicated program assessment page within HelioCampus, provide targeted training for faculty and staff, and offer ongoing support throughout the implementation to ensure successful integration and use.

Preparation Checklist 

  • Learning Outcomes: Send OTEAR a comprehensive list of Program Learning Outcomes for each program that will use HelioCampus. If these align with School Learning Outcomes, provide them as well, showing the alignment. 
  • Curriculum Map: Generate a curriculum map that aligns your program’s learning outcomes with specific courses at the introductory, reinforcement, or mastery levels. 
  • Course Selection: Identify the specific courses you wish to include in the initial assessment phase. 
  • Assignment Identification: Determine which assignments within those courses will be linked to the program’s learning outcomes. 
  • Rubrics: Ideally, have faculty provide the rubrics used to grade the identified assignments to ensure consistent measurement of outcomes. For each rubric, decide if you will assignment-link to a single row in the rubric, multiple rows, or the entire assignment score. 
  • Establish a Timeline: Set clear milestones for each stage of the assessment process and communicate these with program directors and faculty. Faculty should be prepared to build appropriate Canvas assignments and rubrics as the term starts. Program Directors or staff should know when to link assignments (often as the term is underway or nearing its conclusion). Set a time for admins to review the data once the term is complete. 
  • Faculty Engagement: Ensure faculty are briefed on the importance of the assessment and how Canvas assignments and their rubrics will be utilized. 
  • Naming Conventions and Thresholds: Consider the specific settings for your program, including “Program Developmental Levels,” “Proficiency Scale,” and “Performance Goals,” to ensure data is categorized effectively. 

Next Steps – LGA Module Resources