Intro on Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes are measurable statements reflecting students' skills, competencies, and knowledge that any student will demonstrate upon successfully completing a course.
When writing learning Outcomes you must keep in mind the following important parts:

1. The student is the "Subject" of your statement (talk about the student, not about the content or what your students will learn if you use certain teaching methods).

2. The learning statement represents the content, skill, action that students demonstrate (The emphasis is on the student's skills not on the course content, or the teaching methods used by the instructor).

3. The statement should be measurable (that is, you should use action verbs that have a concrete measure).
Major questions as guideline to evaluate
student learning outcomes


1. Are the students meeting the course’s benchmarks or student learning outcomes?
a. Are the students learning outcomes written clear and measurable?
b. Does the course assess student learning adequately?
c. Is the assessment aligned with the course outcomes objectives?
d. What changes have been made in the course as a result of assessment?
e. Are the changes appropriate to reflect continuous improvement?

2. Does the course support student learning outcomes?
a. Is the course based on a solid core of knowledge at all levels of thinking (one taxonomy that could be used is Bloom’s taxonomy revised: Remembering, Understanding, Applying, Analysing, Evaluating and Creating) that supports the learning experience for students?
b. Is the course content based on rigor to immerse students in the discipline as applied to real life?
c. Does the course provide appropriate opportunity for students to apply their knowledge and skills? (projects, lab, field trip, internship, etc.).

3. Does the environment support student learning?
a. Is there enough institutional support for the learning environment?
b. Does the course provide adequate mentoring and advising for students?
c. Does the program set a standard of excellence, with clear outcome objectives?
d. Is there a description of evidence of learning outcomes and program improvement?