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Graduate Degree Level Expectations GDLEs and

Learning Outcomes

Erika Kustra, PhDDirector, Teaching and Learning Development

Centre for Teaching and LearningUniversity of Windsor

Agenda• Place of learning outcomes and GDLEs• Why have learning outcomes?• Why have GDLEs?• Examples• Process Tools

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2010 3

Learning Outcomes

MethodsAssessment

How do Learning Outcomes Connect to learning?

Why have Learning Outcomes?

• Clarity, fairness• Increased student motivation• Relevant teaching methods/learning methods• Strategic and relevant assessment• Accessibility – AODA and accommodations• Intentional teaching• Better Learning

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Program Level

Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Teaching forLearning

(Methods)Assessment

Tasks and Criteria

Reflection and Realignment

for Next Cycle of Learning

Provincial Level

Degree Level Attributes / Accreditation

Adapted from Schofield M (2005) based on Biggs, J (2003)

Constructive Alignment

Joined-Up Practice Coherent University CurriculaUniversity Level

Graduate Attributes

Course Level

Why have the GDLEs?

• Ensure consistency across universities• Establish a common language• Set a basic threshold for quality• Potential for improved quality of learning• This requires more than learning outcomes• Process for enhancement

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ExamplesHigher Education:• evaluate educational theories and

approaches, particularly as they relate to the cultural, political and institutional contexts of higher education.

Masters Computer Science:• review and assess the applicability of project-

related techniques

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ExamplesMasters Social Work:• formulate research questions, undertake

research, and evaluate research outputs within the discipline, but also within an interdisciplinary context.

PhD Social Work:• competently conduct independent research

using at least one research paradigm (mixed, qualitative, or quantitative).

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Process Tool

Learning Outcomes

Teaching/Learning Methods AssessmentWhat will students do?

What will the instructor do?

Tasks Criteria

Cognitive/KnowledgePerformative/SkillsAffective/Attitudes

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Future

Curriculum Mapping• Demonstrate Alignment: Learning Outcomes,

Assessments and Methods• Demonstrate learning outcomes have been

met• International trends: UK, Australia, Bologna

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Thank you

Erika Kustrakustraed@uwindsor.ca

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Questions

• What really matters in graduate education?• Is anything missing from the GDLEs?

• What issues have you faced in designing learning outcomes for the graduate level?

• What concerns do you have about GDLEs?• Do the UDLEs prepare students for graduate

school?• How can you assess whether relevant

outcomes are met?12