Learning at Chapman

Writing Student Learning Outcomes

Learning at Chapman

Writing Student Learning Outcomes

» Writing Student Learning Outcomes

Student learning outcomes (SLOs) for courses and degree programs are developed by faculty. They are action-based statements that describe what a student should be able to as a result of a course or program. SLOs should be specific, observable, and measurable.

Effective student learning outcomes should:

  • Describe what a student can do as a result of a course or program.
  • Be concise and specific. Learning outcomes that are overly complex or include multiple outcomes may be difficult to measure and assess.
  • Follow the Bloom’s Taxonomy hierarchy and include action verbs specific to the level of proficiency expected of students.

 Bloom's Taxonomy

  • Avoid using verbs that are not observable such as “appreciate” or “understand.”
  • Be regularly assessed and revised to ensure they are relevant, specific, and representative of the intended skills and knowledge students are expected to develop.