Assessing the Mānoa Political Internship Program

This presentation outlines a clear assessment model focused on the direct measurement of student learning within the Mānoa Political Internship Program. Details include how we redesigned the application process to transition from a gatekeeper function to an observable training module, utilizing a rehearsal interview and introduces the framework for a professional portfolio. The complete assessment system uses a three-part survey suite (Post-Application, Pre-Internship, and Exit), supported by ongoing conversations with political office supervisors. This integrated design is aligned to seven learning outcomes, requiring students to demonstrate observable skills such as applying communication strategies, evaluating collaborative goals, and correlating academic theory with real-world cases. This framework delivers verifiable evidence of student competence, providing us with the necessary data for continuous program improvement.