Assessment System

Mission Statement

The mission of VanderCook College of Music is to enrich the lives of present and future generations through the preparation of teachers in the instrumental, choral, and general music disciplines.  Our broad-based curriculum is designed to prepare teachers with strong character, skill in the process of teaching, and respect for the essential role of music in our culture.

Assessment Statement

VanderCook is committed to a practical, hands-on program that prepares candidates to be effective professional music educators and responsbile, well-informed citizens.  VanderCook follows a standards-based approach focused on the College's mission, Conceptual Framework, dispositions and outcomes, in addition to state and national standards for certified teachers.  

Assessment is an ongoing process aimed at understanding and improving candidate learning.  It involves both gathering and using information to modify and improve candidate outcomes.

Assessment is the mechanism used to keep standards high while assuring that candidates acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to become effective music educators.  Throughout its century-long history, VanderCook has assessed performance to determine the academic, musical, and pedagogical skill level of its candidates, and continues to be steadfast in the evaluation of its programs.

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