Appraisal, validation, and evaluation utilized in the assessment of instructional materials

To maintain the highest standards of instructional quality, it is essential that self-instructional materials used in the teaching effort be systematically assessed. This paper has presented three types of assessment that have proven effective for the Office of Education, College of Dental Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina. The commitment to a regular assessment program has resulted in a more informed selection of materials and a more appropriate use of self-instructional materials by the faculty. Obviously, all of the approaches described may not be appropriate for all institutions. However, all institutions utilizing self-instructional materials have an obligation to assess the effectiveness of the materials to the best of their ability and resources.