How to develop effective Program Learning Outcomes

Abstract

In these 25 modules (English language, total run time of slightly more than 2 h), one of the most important foundations of any learning activity, namely the program learning outcomes (PLO's) are presented by Dr. Edmond Zahedi, Lead Analyst, curriculum and learning outcomes, at the University of Ottawa. First, the rationale behind PLO's is presented, then a practical definition for program learning outcomes is introduced. The main stakeholders for using PLO's and problems associated with not well-expressed PLO's are presented. Through examples, best practices and the universally accepted syntax for stating PLO's are also illustrated. As there are many myths surrounding this subject, some of the common ones are addressed in this presentation. Next, a short summary of the PLO statement process and its application will be given. Finally, a list of do's and don'ts based on the experience of the author clarifies the various concepts. All modules are split into short sections, so any section could be skipped to spend more time on others sections.