Application of Matrix Outcome Mapping to Constructively Align Program Outcomes and Course Outcomes in Higher Education

Establishing a link between Course Learning Outcomes (LOs) and Program Outcomes (POs) while assessing the course contents and delivery are among the most challenging issues in Higher Education. In the present study two forms were generated based on specific Course Learning Outcomes identified in the syllabus at the beginning of the teaching term: a Student outcome evaluation form and a Faculty outcome evaluation form. The objective is was to assess if the outcomes specified in the syllabus are being delivered and are being delivered throughout the term. At the end of the semester, a student survey was given to students to evaluate the course outcomes. In addition, the faculty evaluated the course outcomes. A matrix was developed mapping the results of the student, the faculty and each assessment contributing to the specified outcome, all are on a similar scale. A mapped matrix was then generated based on the results. The results from the mapped Matrix pinpoint which assignment contributed to the specified outcome, and show the gaps between the student evaluation and faculty evaluation. All data and results are set within a dashboard. The Dashboard is used as a tool to help see where improvements are needed, whether an assessment has contributed to the LOs or not and how much has contributed to the PO, thus constructively aligning POs and LOs with continuous improvement as a focus.