ABSTRACT
Comprehensive assessment allows alternative break program leaders to collect such statements through student evaluation; measure outcomes against expectations; and reach conclusions about the experience's influence on students’ knowledge, skills, and attitudes. Assessment provides a grand opportunity to step back, gather information on what participants experienced, and critically examine ways the program can more effectively form active citizens and groups of committed people who will, indeed, change the world. Assessment is based on a plan that determines and defines learning goals and assessment methods. Solid assessment helps alternative break programs improve their offerings, gain credibility with all facets of the university, and demonstrate how the programs contribute to the college's or university's larger educational goals. Many student affairs and academic affairs divisions have committees or staff who are experts in assessment.
