Assessment program outcomes &s; indicators

Program Outcomes are macro skills that go beyond the context of a specific course and express what graduates of a specific program are able to do upon completion of a program. These are essential for an individual's occupational role - in other words, Program Outcomes are the skills a student demonstrates upon successful completion of a program. Program Outcomes are taught and reinforced in numerous program courses throughout a program curriculum. Program Outcomes are the integration of occupational skills, general education skills, and core abilities that round-out a students educational experience.

What makes a good Program Outcome? As other elements of curriculum, Program Outcomes must be measurable and observable and describe an actionable skill students demonstrate as some point during a program.

Who develops Program Outcomes? Every program consists of an instructional team and an advisory committee. Together, these groups create, maintain and update program outcomes for their specific program. In some instances, independent accrediting bodies, such as the National League for Nursing Accrediting Commission (NLNAC) or certifying agencies such as Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) regulate or contribute to the content of program outcomes.

When can my Program Team update our Program Outcomes? Program Outcomes should be revisited on a regular basis with the instructional team and advisory committee. Official changes must be submitted through the Curriculum Modification Process, which takes place every Fall Semester, between October 1 and December 15. Changes made during this process are reflected in the catalog and brochure publications. Learning Support Services assists in this process.

Where do I find Program Outcomes? Program Outcomes are printed in the College Catalog and in program brochures, under the Program Description. Click on the link below to access NWTC's College Cagalog:

http://www.nwtc.edu/Programs/Info-pdf.htm

Where can I get more information? The Instructional Designers in Learning Support Services are available to assist in all things surrounding development and maintenance of Program Outcomes. Program Teams may schedule meetings or attend an Open Help Session:

TABE/Program Outcome Open Help Session Schedule Fall 2005

If you have any questions or need information from this area, please contact Learning Support Services.

© 2006 NWTC Learning Support Services