The Importance of Linkage

In order that our Course Assessment Plans be consistent with University and Degree Program Goals, it is necessary to link course objectives to the broad objectives of the degree program and even more broadly to the goals of Missouri State University-West Plains. In this chapter we will concentrate on linking course objectives to degree program goals.

Examples:

1. AA In General Studies General Education Goal:
   • Knowledge Area Mathematics - Broad General Education Goal
     • The student should be able to apply and use mathematical models (e.g., algebraic, geometric, statistical) to solve problems.
   • Learning Objective from an Economics Course:
     • Given appropriate data and information the student should be able to explain and solve problems using the Keynesian multiplier.
2. AA In General Studies General Education Goal:
   • Higher Order Thinking - Broad General Education Goal
     • The student should be able to recognize the problematic elements of presentations of information and argument and to formulate diagnostic questions for resolving issues and solving problems.
   • Learning Objective from a Computer Information Systems Course:
     • In problem solving exercises, the student should be able to apply reason to solve problems and think critically.
3. University Wide General Education Goal:
   • Valuing - Broad General Education Goal
     • The student should be able to recognize conflicts within and between value systems and recognize and analyze ethical issues as they arise in a variety of contexts.
   • AAS In Business Program Goal
     • Business program students should value diversity and be willing to learn from other ideas, viewpoints, cultures and societies.
   • Learning Objective from a Management Course:
     • The student should demonstrate through class discussion of case material a valuing of diversity and be willing to learn from other ideas, viewpoints, cultures and societies.

For more examples see:

Program Goals and Objectives to Syllabus - Assessment Guidelines - Assessment Handbook (n.d.) Department of Assessment, Skidmore College. http://www.skidmore.edu/administration/assessment/hbguidelines.htm#advice

Note: you will have to scroll down to: Program Goals and Objectives to Syllabus

A very good Planning Guides are available at:

http://www.academicprograms.calpoly.edu/assessment/assessplanguide.htm#defining

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