This document begins with a brief overview of what assessment is, including a definition, purpose, brief history, and important process considerations in creating a successful and effective assessment effort on each campus. The three key questions in creating an effective assessment for each school are: (1) what do faculty members expect students to learn; (2) can it be demonstrated that students have learned; and (3) how can the results of the assessment be used to help student learning. There are two modes of assessment: direct assessment and indirect assessment. The document explores various methods and tools in carrying out assessment of student learning outcomes. Four key areas of student learning general education, program/major, basic skills, and students and academic support services. Issues of access and equity are discussed in the last section of the report and are essential components of an effective assessment program. It is stressed that assessment is a never-ending process that must provide ongoing feedback to help improve student learning and insure student success. The document concludes with a list of definitions, a bibliography, including websites, and a variety of examples of assessment related materials for two-year colleges. Contains 87 references and 7 appendices. (MZ)