The Matrix Approach to Curriculum and Program Learning Outcomes Design
Monday, November 18, 2019
Time: 1:00 pm PT | 2:00 pm MT | 3:00 pm CT | 4:00 pm ET
Presenter:
Dallas Rhodes, Georgia Southern University
Recording and Resources:
Presentation Slides: The Matrix Approach.pptx (PowerPoint 2007 (.pptx) 38.9MB Dec13 19)
Curricular Map Template.xls (Excel 40kB Nov18 19)
Webinar Description:
Matrix mapping provides a rich graphical portrait of curriculum content and can be used as a starting point for program assessment. The style presented here places program-learning outcomes (PLOs) in the non-header rows of the matrix. The columns in the matrix provide information about the program's courses. Core courses are arrayed first, followed by required courses, and then electives. The matrix also includes rows for indicating the types of activities that occur during the courses. Instructors for the courses complete the matrix by indicating: 1) the amount of emphasis placed on each of the PLOs during the course and 2) the types of activities that occur during the course (e.g., writing assignments, fieldwork etc.). The completed matrix is a synoptic view of a program's goals and where the program's learning objectives are assessed. Furthermore, the matrix has proven an effective means of conveying this information to institutional assessment officers, accrediting agencies, and institutional decision makers.
Webinar Goals
- Introduce the basics of curricular program mapping.
- Describe the variety of options available in the use of matrices.
- Provide examples of real completed program matrices.