Quantifying Student Competency Development Using the uOCompetencies Proficiency Survey

Abstract

This report provides a comprehensive evaluation of the uOCompetencies Proficiency Survey's role within the University of Ottawa's CO-OP program. It examines the survey's twin objectives: elevating the quality of feedback and evaluations, and precisely measuring student competency development. Initially focusing on the Fall 2023 cohort of 1017 students, this updated analysis now includes the Winter 2024 cohort, comprising 1043 students, and the Summer 2024 cohort, comprising 1799 students.

Through the analysis of data derived from pre and post-surveys—filled out independently by students and their internship supervisors—and processed via the CO-OP Navigator and PowerBI, the study uncovers significant improvements. These include a positive shift along the competency proficiency scale, a notable alignment in assessment perceptions following consensus building between students and their supervisors during mid-term evaluations, and an increased level of student satisfaction with the feedback process. Notably, these results are consistently observed across all three semesters, despite variations in student profiles such as grade level and experience.

The uOCompetencies Proficiency Survey is highlighted as a practical and effective tool for enhancing the quality of supervisor feedback, thus improving the student’s experience and abilities to refine, plan and implement their competency development objectives.