This page explains the connections between Graduate Profile Outcomes (GPOs) and Learning Outcomes (LOs) in a programme.
The development of a qualification or programme starts with the Graduate Profile Outcomes (GPOs). This is usually a list of knowledge, technical and affective skills which students will have achieved when they graduate [see image for an example and taken from a Programme Approval Document (PAD)].
Learning outcomes describe what you are expected to know or be able to do by the end of a topic or course. They help you understand the purpose of your learning and what you need to focus on.
Essentially, each course will have a set of Learning Outcomes (LOs) which describes the skills and knowledge the students will have once they have achieved and passed the course. It is important your assessment is written, so that our learners have the opportunity to meet the required course LOs. Therefore, all LOs must be apparent and transparent on all courses and assessments.
To obtain the LOs and as written on your PAD, please see the flow chart below (PAD > GPOs > LOs > Assessments are all linked).
The assessments in each course are the mechanism to allow your students the opportunity to achieve the required skills, knowledge, and learning outcomes. Below are examples of LOs in an approved PAD.
The example above shows that this course will require a summative portfolio of evidence (compiled by the student) and the portfolio assessment will require students to meet all three (3) LOs on the PAD. For more details in how to get started with assessment writing, check out Assessment – A starting point Knowledge
From MIT’s Assessment and Moderation policy document:
All assessment must:
- measure student performance against the learning outcomes of the course
- include opportunities for students to obtain formative feedback within the course to support summative assessment
- assist the development and progress of students’ learning during the course
- use assessment methods appropriate to the learning outcomes of the course and the graduate outcomes of the programme
- be in accordance with approved programme regulations and external regulatory or standard setting body requirements; and encourage original work and minimise the potential for plagiarism.