An outcome is a statement about the knowledge, skills, attitudes, and/or abilities
a student is expected to have upon successful completion of an academic activity.
An outcome is expressed using action verbs and is stated in terms that make it measurable.
What types of outcomes are assessed at Porterville College?
Five types of outcomes are assessed at Porterville College:
At Porterville College, the Outcome Assessment Cycle consists of the following four
steps:
Collect—Collect the outcome assessments
Analyze—Analyze the collected assessments
Identify—Identify actions based on analysis to improve instruction, service, assessment,
and/or outcome statements
Implement—Implement the actions identified
The cycle should repeat on a regular basis. Every outcome should go through the Outcome
Assessment Cycle at least once every four years.
Outcomes
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The College Council is responsible for assessing the institutional learning outcomes.
Communication
Use language and non-verbal modes of expression appropriate to the audience and purpose.
Cognition
Think independently, creatively, and critically in order to analyze, synthesize, and
evaluate ideas and information.
Information Competency
Utilize research skills necessary to achieve educational, professional, and personal
objectives.
Social and Cultural Responsibility
Demonstrate sensitivity to and respect for others, both locally and globally, and
participate actively in group decision making.
Personal Development
Demonstrate self-management and ethical awareness through practices that promote physical,
mental, and emotional well-being.
Assessments, Results, Continuous Improvement
The Curriculum Committee is responsible for assessing the general education learning
outcomes.
Communication
Students will read, write, speak, and listen effectively.
Critical Thinking
Think independently, creatively, and critically in order to analyze, synthesize, and
evaluate ideas Students will think independently, creatively, and critically so they can make informed
and logical judgments of the arguments of others, arrive at reasoned and meaningful
arguments and positions, and formulate and apply ideas to new contexts.
Scientific and Quantitative Reasoning
Students will understand and apply mathematical and scientific principles and methods.
Technology, Information Literacy, and Information Competency
Students will effectively use multiple formats, including print, computer and emerging
technologies, to locate, access, analyze, evaluate, and utilize information that facilitates
learning and critical inquiry.
Social and Cultural Understanding and Ethical Development
Students will understand and be prepared to actively participate as informed and responsible
citizens in political, social, cultural, and environmental matters, both locally and
globally.
Personal Development
Students will have the ability to adapt to change, learn effectively, establish a
framework for aesthetic responsiveness, enhance wellness, and set personal and professional
goals.
Assessments, Results, Continuous Improvement
Each program has learning outcomes (PLOs). The PLOs are found in the Outcomes Database, in the College Catalog, and degrees & certificate section of the College website.
Each academic division/discipline is responsible for assessing the program learning
outcomes.
Non-Instructional areas have outcomes. These are called service areas outcomes. Service
area outcomes can be found in the Outcomes Database.
Each non-instructional area is responsible for assessing the service area outcomes.
Service area outcomes are discussed in program reviews.
