Defining Module Outcomes

The figure above shows a bridge with a student preparing to walk across it. For the learner to successfully cross the bridge from the start of the course until they use what they learn in the course, there needs to be alignment.  

Establishing Clear and Measurable Learning Outcomes

As shown in the image above, determining the learning outcomes is the first step in the design of a course. They are the destination you want students to reach by the end of the course. Everything else such as assessment (how you’ll know if you reached your destination) and learning activities (the route you’re going to take) come later. 

“Learning outcomes are statements of what a student is expected to know, understand and/or be able to demonstrate after completion of a process of learning (Kennedy, 2007, p. 21).” Establishing clear and measurable learning outcomes is essential to shape the development of online course content. Outcomes support in the creation of formative and summative assessments and ensures accurate measurement of student achievement. Learning outcomes are crucial for fostering accountability and evaluating programs, allowing continuous improvement in teaching practices, and facilitating institutions in showcasing adherence to accreditation standards.

How to Write Learning Outcomes

The Writing Learning Outcomes Handout states that effective outcomes are specific, measurable, attainable, relevant, timely, straightforward, and student-centered. Action Verbs for Learning Outcomes are required to clearly specify the expected behaviours that students should demonstrate within your module. This clarity helps both instructors and students understand the expectations and facilitates assessment of student achievement. Additionally, action verbs found in the Bloom’s Taxonomy Staircase promote active learning by emphasizing the performance and application of knowledge and skills through a leveled progression of cognitive activity.

When creating learning outcomes, it is important to think about aligning them with real-world contexts to help students develop the competencies needed to tackle professional challenges. This relevance ensures that learning is transferable, allowing students to apply their knowledge and skills in various situations. By linking outcomes to real-world scenarios, students are better equipped for success, fostering a more comprehensive educational experience that enhances critical thinking through experiential learning methods beyond traditional lectures (Krain, 2010).