What are SLOs?

Student learning outcomes (SLOs) are statements that specify what students will know, be able to do, or be able to demonstrate when they have completed or participated in a program/activity/course/project. Outcomes are usually expressed as knowledge, skills, attitudes or values.

Why are SLOs important?

It is not enough to state what is expected that students will know or be able to do by the end of their time in a course or program; the next step is assessment – that is to determine if students are gaining skills or knowledge as a result of participating in a class or college program. The purpose of assessment is to use results as a starting point for meaningful dialogue about the next steps in planning and improvement in order to maximize student success. Please note that discussion arising from assessment results are not evaluation of individual faculty members, rather the focus is on student achievements and needs.

Institutional Student Learning Outcomes (ISLOs)

WCC courses, programs, & services map to one or more of our eight institutional student learning outcomes (ISLOs), ensuring that students who complete an associate degree at WCC will be able to:

  • Communication: Effectively use language and non-verbal communication consistent with and appropriate for the audience and purpose.
  • Computation: Use appropriate mathematical concepts and methods to understand, analyze, and communicate issues in quantitative terms.
  • Critical Thinking: Analyze data/information in addressing and evaluating problems and issues in making decisions.
  • Global Awareness: Articulate similarities and differences among cultures, times, and environments, demonstrating an understanding of cultural pluralism and knowledge of global issues.
  • Information Competency: Conduct, present, and use research necessary to achieve educational, professional, and personal objectives.
  • Personal and Social Responsibility: Interact with others by demonstrating respect for opinions, feelings, and values.
  • Scientific Awareness: Understand the purpose of scientific inquiry and the implications and applications of basic scientific principles.
  • Technological Awareness: Select and use appropriate technological tools for personal, academic, and career tasks.

Woodland Community College Instructional Units (Institutional Student Learning Outcomes)

Woodland Community College Programs and Services (Student Learning Outcomes)

Graduation Survey Overview

The institutional student learning outcomes survey was first administered in the summer of 2017. Prior to the survey being implemented, the SLO committee at WCC reviewed the instrument. The committee provided suggestions on the wording of questions and instrument length. This was instrumental in ensuring questions truly captured the eight institutional student learning outcomes.

The 2024 Graduation Survey data reveal positive results in ISLOs based on student self-assessments. Below is a summary of the 2024 Graduation Survey Results:

Highlights

  • Students identified an increased sensitivity to diverse cultures and various populations.
  • Students identified increased preparation to communicate effectively verbally.
  • Students identified an increased understanding of scientific inquiry.

Attention needed

  • Student comfort analyzing data.
  • Data driven decision-making.

2024 Graduation Survey Results