Mission, Goal and Outcome align from top to bottom

  Definition Characteristics Examples
Mission

Holistic vision of the values and philosophy of the university or college

Aspirational statement; May include information on history, academic environment, student body, connections to the community, etc.

The mission of the university is to provide students with the best of current educational practice and environment, through which students develop the habit of intellectual inquiry, prepare for challenging professions, and contribute productively to society.

Goal

General statements about knowledge, skills, attitudes, and values expected in graduates

Describes the aims or purposes of the program and the curriculum; Goals should be broadly stated, meaningful, achievable and assessable.

  • Students can articulate and apply the fundamental concepts of the discipline.
  • Students are able to communicate effectively, both orally and in writing.
  • Students will demonstrate the cognitive skills and attitudes to engage in lifelong learning.
Outcome

Clear, concise statements that describe how students can demonstrate their mastery of program goals

Describes the specific knowledge, skills and attitudes students should acquire in the program; Outcomes should be aligned with university mission and program learning goals; They should be specific, clearly stated, assessable, and realistic.

  • Students will articulate the definitions of, connections between, and differences among the fundamental concepts in genetics.
  • Students are able to identify and explain the main viewpoints and sources of contention in a major theoretical argument.
  • Students will demonstrate awareness and acceptance of cultures and backgrounds other than their own.
  • Students can describe and follow the major steps of a scientific research process.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

*Adopted from Mary Allen (2006, 2011)