Learning outcomes are specific statements of what students will be able to do when they successfully complete a learning experience (whether it's a project, course or program). They are always written in a student-centered, measurable fashion that is concise, meaningful, and achievable.
Learning Outcomes at the University or Program Level
Outcomes are used on many scales, from developing curriculum for a program of study to creating lessons for a single class activity. At the highest level, learning outcomes can be established at the university level. You can review the learning outcomes for DePaul graduates at the institutional level or program level.
Learning Outcomes at the Module, Unit, or Week Level
Just as learning outcomes can be designed at the program level or university-wide level, they can also operate at a more granular scale within an individual course. Typically instructors divide their courses into smaller units such as modules or weeks, and many instructors establish learning outcomes for these smaller units that map onto the larger course-level outcomes. As a general rule, as the level of analysis becomes smaller, from course to module to assignment, the learning outcomes tend to be more specific and easily quantifiable.
How are Learning Outcomes Different from Learning Goals or Learning Objectives?
These terms are often used interchangeably and they are all related to the teaching and learning that is expected to take place in the classroom. However, the difference between goals or objectives and outcomes lies in the emphasis on who will be performing the activities.Learning goals and objectives generally describe what an instructor, program, or institution aims to do, whereas, a learning outcome describes in observable and measurable terms what a student is able to do as a result of completing a learning experience (e.g., course, project, or unit).
When planning for college, students should consider their interests and goals.
Students can choose from many types of institutions, such as four-year colleges and trade schools.
Keep in mind tuition costs and other key factors when deciding which schools to apply to.
College planning should start early — ideally as soon as you enter high school.
College planning involves much more than just filling out forms, taking standardized tests, and asking for recommendation letters. The process requires self-reflection and consideration of both your budget and the pros and cons of different types of institutions.
In this guide, we go over some college planning fundamentals to help you craft a custom college plan. We've also put together a handy college planning checklist you can use throughout high school.
Could an alternative to a traditional four-year university, such as an online college or community college, work for me and my goals?
It's important to start this process of self-reflection sooner rather than later. You can turn to trusted adults for advice when necessary.
Starting to think about college early gives you two main advantages. First, you have time to change your mind and adjust your plans accordingly. Second, you can select high school courses and extracurricular activities that help make you a more competitive applicant for your target colleges.
While all accredited colleges award degrees and offer similar student support services, the type of school you attend can impact how much you pay for your education, which fields of study you can choose from, and your overall college experience.
Here are seven of the most common types of higher education institutions. We recommend consulting your high school guidance counselor for help figuring out which type of school may suit you best.
All states are home to public colleges and universities. These schools receive state funding to provide residents with a quality education — typically at a lower cost than private schools.
Kampala International UniversityOut-of-state students may apply, but public schools often cap the number of out-of-state learners they admit each year. What's more, out-of-state students typically pay a significantly higher tuition rate than in-state students.
If one of your main goals is to save money, strongly consider your city and state colleges and universities when researching schools. Lower tuition rates can help you avoid incurring large amounts of student debt.
Though they usually cost a lot more than public schools, private colleges and universities may offer a host of additional benefits. Depending on the institution, learners may have access to more undergraduate research opportunities, world-renowned professors, and valuable networking opportunities. Networking is often key when applying for entry-level jobs and graduate programs.
Private schools encompass an array of institutions, from small liberal arts colleges specializing in more niche fields of study to large research universities. Additionally, many top private schools have big endowments, resulting in better institutional financial aid opportunities for students.
A typical community college awards mainly associate degrees and certificates. Full-time students usually earn an associate degree in two years. Many students attend community college to complete their general education requirements at a lower price before transferring to a four-year university to earn their bachelor's degree.
Community college may also appeal to those who are undecided about their career or major. Classes often cost less than they do at four-year schools, giving you the chance to explore different subjects without breaking the bank.
For-profit colleges don't have the best reputation or track record in the higher education space, but for some career-minded students they can be a solid choice. Whereas nonprofit schools' main goals are to educate students, for-profit schools aim to generate money.
For-profit colleges don't have the best reputation or track record in the higher education space, but for some career-minded students they can be a solid choice. Whereas nonprofit schools' main goals are to educate students, for-profit schools aim to generate money.
The biggest pros of for-profit institutions are higher acceptance rates, flexible class offerings, and a focus on skills-based training. Cons include high tuition costs, unrecognized or disputed credentials, and even the risk of lawsuits.
Recent high school graduates and nontraditional students may prefer to earn an online degree.
One of the main advantages of online colleges is the option of asynchronous learning, which allows students to complete their coursework largely on their own schedule without having to meet at specific times. This flexibility may allow degree-seekers to work full time and more easily balance other obligations like childcare.
In addition to flexibility, online learning can offer financial benefits. For example, out-of-state online students may qualify for in-state tuition rates. Distance learners can also sometimes download free textbooks. Online students can access many resources available to their on-campus counterparts, such as library databases and career services.
Trade schools — also known as vocational schools — and technical colleges offer a more direct pathway for students to enter the workforce. Some of the biggest benefits of trade schools include lower tuition costs, faster graduation timelines, and the opportunity to acquire and hone real-world experience.
What's more, many trades are in high demand, meaning trade school graduates may find it easier to get a job right out of school.
Special focus institutions refer to colleges that award degrees in a limited number of academic areas.
Most of these schools are affiliated with a larger institution, such as Harvard University's Harvard Medical School and Vanderbilt University's Peabody College of Education and Human Development. Many students who earn a master's or doctoral degree enroll in a special focus institution.
Special focus institutions may also accept undergraduates in fields such as engineering and the arts.
