The York Assessment Forum aims to explore, interpret and expand our understanding and observations about York's learning environment, and to develop specific measures to enhance teaching, learning and student life both inside and outside of the classroom. Forum members include faculty, students and administrators. Research conducted by the Forum builds on existing "best practice" in ways that acknowledge the particular complexity, needs and constraints of York's unique context.

Three projects, in their second year of investigation, are concerned with:

• first year transition and retention issues.
• demands of students' lives and the consequences for their engagement with university studies.
• student diversity at the graduate level.

Two new projects are forming this year on:

• bias in student evaluation of teaching, and
• technology in teaching.

All projects are defined and shaped by Forum members to address concerns and generate data that are unique to York's teaching and learning environment. The projects are independently financed by sources within and outside the University. Project teams meet regularly outside of Forum meetings and the meetings of the full Forum provide opportunities for teams to receive critical feedback on progress and advice on future directions. Results of projects are published each year and will ultimately prompt and inform positive changes to improve York's services, programs and student learning.

New members interested in participating in any of the above research projects, or in developing new projects, are always welcome. To join the Forum, please contact the CST (cst@yorku.ca/736-5754).