Benchmarking the Degree of Implementation of Learner-Centered Approaches

We describe an objective way to measure whether curricula, educational programs, and institutions are learner-centered. This technique for benchmarking learner-centeredness uses rubrics to measure courses on 29 components within Weimer's five dimensions. We converted the scores on the rubrics to four-point indices and constructed histograms that indicate how learner-centered courses are and which specific learner-centered components are used. We applied this benchmarking technique to a curriculum sample to illustrate how the data can be used and interpreted. These analyses form a snapshot of teaching that can be used in accreditation self-studies and for faculty development.