STUDENT LEARNING OUTCOMES

Student Learning Outcomes: are benefits for the students; changes in knowledge, values, position, skills, behavior or status. The changes in knowledge, skills, attitude, awareness, condition, position, etc that occur as a result of the learning that takes place in the classroom. These are direct benefits to students. Examples: general learning skills (i.e., improved writing and speaking abilities), ability to apply learning to the work environment (i.e., demonstrate skills in co-op), program specific skills developed or enhanced (i.e, take blood pressure)

Program Outcomes: -benefits that results from the completion of an entire program or series of courses. Are ther benefits for students who get the AAS in welding vs. those who take a few courses? If so, what are they? -Examples: licensure pass rates; employment rates; acceptance into 4-year schools; lifelong learning issues; contributions to society; contributions to the profession, etc

What outcomes are not: 1. Grades from courses 2. A list of the 400 learning objectives off the syllabi 3. Program outputs (headcount, FTE, assigned Seats, number of graduates, etc.)

Identifying student learning outcomes: advisory committee input; focus groups of completers; evaluation of syllabi to determine what is needed; literature in the field; look at other schools Identifying program outcomes: job placement rates; transfer to 4-year schools; knowledge and skills necessary to be successful in the field; improved condition; values practiced; completion rates and retention rates; end-of-course test scores; critical success factors; licensure exam scores; life-long learning indicators; professional service and participation Methods of outcomes assessment: pre and post testing; graduate survey; focus groups; archival data (credentialing boards, state exams); surveys from current students; work samples; portfolios

Closing the loop! Have to show how this data was used to make improvements in the program!