The goal of any nursing program is to graduate competent nurses who are prepared to provide safe care and participate fully within a complex health care system. The need for assessment and evaluation of achievement of student-learning objectives is vital. Undoubtedly, the primary method of student evaluation is through the administration of examinations. This book provides an overview of how evaluation and rubrics fit within the larger nursing education teaching-learning process as more than just a final destination or afterthought. Rubrics should be created with intent, taking into account the student-learning objectives and the teaching-learning process. The book offers practical support for the design of meaningful assignments and provides a process for effective and objective assessment, evaluation, and grading. The first part of the book provides a quick overview of the teaching-learning processes that drive and impact student assessment and evaluation. The second part provides descriptions, uses, and supporting evidence for commonly used assignments. The assignments discussed are: paper assignments, presentation assignments, students’ participation programs, discussion board assignments, reflective journals, case studies, concept maps, poster presentations, and student portfolios. The second part also includes detailed modifiable grading rubric templates for each assignment presented.
