Student Learning Outcomes

In 2003-2004, a curriculum assessment working group of the Provost’s Council for Enhancing Student Learning (CESL) developed seven proposed undergraduate student learning outcomes (SLOs) for all undergraduate students at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities. In May 2007, after more than three years of development and discussion, the university’s Faculty Senate adopted seven SLOs as official policy for the Twin Cities campus (see right).

These student learning outcomes can be expanded at the departmental or unit level to reflect the ways in which students achieve them within and across disciplines. The outcomes will help guide faculty across the University to develop courses and syllabi, curricula and learning activities, and to design assessments to gather concrete evidence about what students know and can do. In addition, the outcomes will provide a framework for students’ and advisers’ discussions and planning for the students’ undergraduate programs at the University.

The development and implementation of the SLOs:

• Provides a strategic way to improve teaching and learning
• Helps ensure the reaccreditation of the University
• Helps to address increasing federal concerns about measurement and accountability in higher education
• Better prepares students to speak to their experience and knowledge
• Helps energize and build interest among various groups about the University's commitment to exceptional teaching and learning
  

Faculty play a key role in communicating the SLOs to students through syllabi, class assignments, grading rubrics, and evaluations / assessments of student learning.