Aligning Program Learning Outcomes (PLO)
and Course Specific Objectives (CLO)
As we continue our journey in advancing teaching excellence, this article focuses on a crucial aspect of curriculum design: Aligning Program Learning Outcomes (PLO) with Course Specific Objectives (CLO) using the ABCD method.
Why Alignment Matters:
Proper alignment between PLO and CLO ensures that every course contributes effectively to the overall learning goals of your program. This not only helps in maintaining academic standards but also enhances student learning by providing
clear and consistent expectations.
The Importance of Alignment in Outcome-Based Education (OBE)
Under the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) curriculum, the focus shifts from traditional teaching methods to a results-driven approach where the primary goal is achieving specific learning outcomes. In this context, aligning PLO with CLO is critical because:
- Ensuring Consistency and Coherence
Aligning PLO and CLO ensures that every course objective is directly contributing to the broader program outcomes. This consistency is crucial for maintaining a coherent educational experience where all learning activities are purposefully directed toward achieving desired graduate attributes.
- Enhancing Accountability and Transparency
When PLO and CLO are aligned, it becomes easier to demonstrate how each course supports the overall goals of the program. This transparency helps in assessing both student performance and the effectiveness of the program itself, ensuring that educational standards are being met.
- Facilitating Continuous Improvement
An aligned curriculum under the OBE framework provides a clear structure for assessing and improving teaching strategies and course content. It enables educators to identify gaps in learning and make data-driven decisions to enhance curriculum design and delivery.
Understanding the ABCD Method: To effectively align PLO and CLO, we recommend utilizing the ABCD method for writing learning objectives. Here’s a quick refresher:
- Audience
Identify who the learners are. In our context, this would be “students” or “participants.”
- Behavior
Define what you expect the students to do. This should be an observable and measurable action, such as “analyze,” “compare,” or “design.”
- Condition
Specify the conditions under which the behavior will be performed. This could include the tools, resources, or situations provided.
- Degree
Describe the level of proficiency required. For example, you might specify accuracy rates, completion time, or other performance criteria.
Example of Effective Alignment
Let’s say one of your PLO is: “Students will be able to analyze macroeconomic conditions and their impact on public policy.”. A well-aligned CLO for your macroeconomics course could be: “Students will be able to analyze changes in inflation rates and their effects on economic growth using current statistical data, with at least 85% accuracy.”. Notice how the CLO specifies the behavior (analyze), the condition (using current statistical data), and the degree (85% accuracy), ensuring it aligns with the broader PLO.
Call to Action
We encourage all faculty members to review their course objectives and ensure they align with their program’s learning outcomes.
By doing so, you contribute to a cohesive and effective learning experience for our students, fully embracing the principles of Outcome-Based Education.