What are outcomes?

Outcomes should be learner focused rather than instructor or staff focused which would be objectives.

Measureable, observable, and specific statement(s) that clearly communicate what a student should know and be able to do as a result of learning in a course, program, or experience. Focused on the application of knowledge - students should be able to use the information as a transferrable skill in another relatable setting.

Different "levels" of SLOs depending on their use:

  • Division
  • Department
  • Program/Experience

Nested circles depicting KAO alignment with MSU and Student Success.

Identify Goals and Outcomes

  • Mission: Statement of purpose
  • Goals: Broad, general statements about what the program intends to accomplish
  • Objectives: A specific result the instructor/staff member is trying to achieve within a timeframe
  • Outcomes: Detailed, measurable statements that outline the end results of the program for the participant
  • There should be a connection between the mission, goals, objectives and outcomes.
  • Not all programs or services need learning outcomes.

Steps to developing learning outcomes

Resources