Processes and resources

Develop a better understanding of processes and resources when it comes to evaluating a program.

Three-step process

Three-step process: SWOT analysis, revision of program learning outcomes, curriculum analysis
Diagram showing three activities: SWOT analysis, review of program learning outcomes, and curriculum analysis

We offer a three-step process for program evaluation, as a collaborative activity in the framework of the cyclical program evaluation at the University through which our lead analyst supports your academic unit in:

  • Collecting multiple stakeholders’ views about the program through a SWOT (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats) analysis.
  • Setting out new program expectations aligned with stakeholders’ demand through revised program-level learning outcomes (PLOs).
  • Analyzing how the whole set of learning activities are aligned with the revised program learning outcomes.

Throughout this process, our lead analyst will work in close collaboration with the designated lead person/committee for this activity at your academic unit.

1. SWOT Analysis (SWOT: Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats)

Objective: collect reliable data about the program as seen by stakeholders.

2. Revision of Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs)

Objective: ensure alignment of PLOs with stakeholders’ expectations.

Series of video modules: "How to develop effective Program Learning Outcomes" (close captions in English)

To know more about Program Learning Outcomes, please view the video modules.

  • Module 1: Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) - What are they and who needs them?
  • Module 2: Universal Syntax for Expressing Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) - Is one way better that another?
  • Module 3: The Bloom Taxonomy - Sometimes students need to memorize, and sometimes they need to be more creative!
  • Module 4: The PLO revision process at the University of Ottawa - How to revise/develop PLOs.
  • Module 5: Degree Level Expectations, Rubrics and uOCompetencies - Tools to assist in answering these questions: Do we have the right PLOs? Do we have the right number of PLOs?
  • Module 6: Do’s and don’ts - Lay the foundation right! Right from the start!

3. Curriculum analysis

Objective: evaluate the alignment of instructional elements in the curriculum with the revised PLOs.

Timeline

As these three steps are iterative, it is recommended to allocate a minimum of three to four months of active work for this activity. While it’s hard to predict exactly how much time is needed, expect to spend two to three hours per week (excluding the time required for respondents to complete the questionnaire). Our curriculum and learning outcomes lead analyst will guide and support you during this process.