Student Learning Outcomes

Identify the Essential Knowledge and Skills 
Ask: What core knowledge, skills, or attitudes are essential for students in this course?
Example: For a biology course, essential skills might include analyzing scientific data or understanding cell structures. 

Choose Observable and Measurable Verbs 
Data points need to speak directly to Student Learning Outcomes/Program Learning Outcomes.  If these outcomes are difficult to assess, they need to be revised and made clear.

Student Learning Outcomes must be appropriate and based on their level of classes they take.  First year students are generally “introduced” to concepts and theories while third- and fourth-year students have had many classes reinforcing this knowledge base (see below).  Blooms Taxonomy Action Verbs are based on levels of learning used to delineate first year courses from senior level courses.

Use action verbs from Bloom’s Taxonomy to clarify what students will accomplish. Avoid vague verbs like “understand” or “know,” and choose specific actions like “analyze,” “create,” or “compare.”

Define the Conditions and Criteria 
State the context (conditions) in which the skill or knowledge will be demonstrated and how well (criteria) students need to perform.
Example: “Analyze scientific data from laboratory experiments with 80% accuracy.”

Align SLOs with Course Goals and Assessments
Ensure each outcome aligns with broader course or program goals and can be evaluated through course assessments like projects, exams, or presentations.

Avoid Vague Language
Replace vague terms like “understand” with specific, observable actions.

Focus on the Student, Not the Instructor 
SLOs describe what students will do, not what the instructor will teach.

Use Measurable Criteria
Make sure the outcome can be assessed. Avoid outcomes that cannot be measured objectively. 

Assessment methods are the tools and techniques used to evaluate whether students have achieved student learning outcomes. Best practices for evaluating the achievement of SLOs include: 

Using a Variety of Methods: Combine direct (e.g., exams, projects) and indirect (e.g., surveys, interviews) assessment methods.

Ensuring Validity and Reliability: Choose methods that accurately measure what they are intended to and produce consistent results.

Aligning with SLOs: Ensure each assessment method directly measures the corresponding SLO.

Practicality: Consider the resources and time available when selecting assessment methods.

Direct assessment examples: Capstone projects, standardized tests, portfolios.

Indirect assessment examples: Alumni surveys, employer feedback, student self-assessments.