Developing Learning Outcomes and Curriculum Maps
Clear, measurable student learning outcomes are the foundation of effective program-level assessment. They define what students should know, be able to do, or value by the time they complete a program. Curriculum maps help departments align these outcomes with courses and learning experiences, ensuring that students have structured opportunities to achieve them.
? Writing Student Learning Outcomes
Effective outcomes are:
- Student-centered: Focused on what students will achieve.
- Measurable: Use observable action verbs.
- Aligned: Reflect program goals and institutional priorities.
Tips for Writing Outcomes:
- Start with a verb from Bloom’s Taxonomy (e.g., analyze, create, evaluate).
- Avoid vague terms like “understand” or “appreciate.”
- Include context or conditions when appropriate.
? See: Bloom’s Taxonomy Action Verbs
? See: Revised Bloom's Taxonomy - All Domains
?Student Learning Outcomes Session
This session walks through the process of identifying and aligning program learning outcomes (PLOs), administrative outcomes, and course learning outcomes (CLOs). It also covers how to include outcomes on syllabi.
? Download Slides: Student Learning Outcomes Session (PowerPoint)
Topics Covered:
- Identify Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)
- Writing your own vs. using prescribed standards
- Aligning PLOs to University Learning Outcomes (ULOs)
- Identify Administrative Outcomes (e.g., retention, graduation)
- Understand how Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs) fit with PLOs
- Using PLOs as CLOs in capstone or culminating courses
- Aligning CLOs to PLOs
- Include learning outcomes on syllabi
?️ Curriculum Mapping
A curriculum map visually connects learning outcomes to the courses and experiences where they are taught and assessed. It helps departments:
- Identify gaps or redundancies in instruction.
- Ensure that each outcome is introduced, reinforced, and mastered.
- Clarify how assessment data will be collected.
Typical Curriculum Map Structure:
| Outcome | Course A | Course B | Course C |
|---|---|---|---|
| Outcome 1 | I (Introduce) | R (Reinforce) | M (Master) |
| Outcome 2 | R | M | — |
?Curriculum Mapping Session
This session provides practical strategies for aligning required and elective courses to PLOs and documenting those connections in syllabi and appendices.
? Download Slides: Curriculum Mapping Session (PowerPoint)
Topics Covered:
- Align required and elective courses to applicable PLOs
- Excel worksheet for mapping
- Choose a mapping scheme that fits your program:
- “Touches” vs. Assessed
- Contributes / Introduce–Reinforce–Master
- Include mapping in syllabi
- Create PDFs for syllabi appendices
? Integrating Outcomes and Maps into Assessment Planning
Once outcomes and maps are developed, they guide the selection of assessment methods and the interpretation of results. They also support accreditation by demonstrating intentional design and alignment across the curriculum.
? See: Assessment Planning Presentation