In this detailed study, Astin examines why assessment activity has produced such meager results and, just as important, how existing activities can be improved. The author also discusses what new assessment practices can be implemented and shares specific and sometimes startling ideas on: --How assessment information can most effectively be used for evaluation; --How results can be used to enlighten and inform the practitioner; --How practical, technical, and political problems can be overcome when building an assessment database from student and faculty input; --How the movement of externally mandated assessments in various states is having a negative impact on higher education.