Learner outcomes: modes and
measures
The
tables show the modes by which Department of Economics undergraduate students
are challenged to master each Learner Outcome Goal, and the measures employed by
the Department of Economics to verify that the Goals have been met.
|
1. Economic Reasoning/Critical Thinking |
mode |
Indirect Measure[1] |
Direct measure[2] |
|
a)
distinguish factual
statements from opinions or value judgements |
|
|
|
|
b)
use scientific
methods to analyze and interpret data |
|
|
|
|
c)
distinguish causal
relationships from correlations |
|
|
|
|
d)
determine the
accuracy of statements |
|
|
|
|
e)
recognize the
usefulness of abstractions and models |
|
|
|
|
f)
distinguish simplifying
and critical assumptions from unnecessary details |
|
|
|
|
g)
objectively critique
competing viewpoints to make reasoned judgements |
|
|
|
|
h)
* distinguish
positive from normative * |
|
|
|
|
i)
* distinguish ‘what
is’ from ‘what should be’ * |
|
|
|
|
j)
* distinguish unique
outcomes from general tendencies * |
|
|
|
|
2. Decision Making/Problem Solving: |
mode |
Indirect Measure |
Direct measure |
|
a)
work effectively
alone and in teams to solve problems |
|
|
|
|
b)
use scientific methods
to identify optimal choices among economic alternatives |
|
|
|
|
c)
identify
decision-makers, objectives, choice variables, and constraints |
|
|
|
|
d)
identify and apply
the solution technique best suited for the specific problem |
|
|
|
|
e)
understand how
conclusions depend on assumptions |
|
|
|
|
3. Communications: |
mode |
Indirect Measure |
Direct measure |
|
a)
communicate economic and business concepts to
professionals, organizations, governments,
and the general public |
|
|
|
|
b)
obtain information by accessing electronic or traditional media, by listening, or by observation |
|
|
|
|
c)
use a computer and
statistical methods to organize and analyze data |
|
|
|
|
d)
write clearly and
effectively |
|
|
|
|
e)
speak clearly
and persuasively |
|
|
|
|
f)
prepare and present visual information effectively |
|
|
|
|
4. Ethics: |
mode |
Indirect Measure |
Direct measure |
|
a) articulate
an ethical perspective |
|
|
|
|
b) discuss
contemporary ethical and moral issues in professional and private life |
|
|
|
|
c) critically
evaluate own arguments and those of others |
|
|
|
|
5. Environmental
Awareness: |
mode |
Indirect Measure |
Direct measure |
|
|
a)
understand the physical and biological properties
of the environment and ecological systems |
|
|
|
|
|
b) understand
how economic activity, such as business or agriculture, impacts the
environment |
|
|
|
|
|
6.
International/Multi-Cultural Awareness: |
|
|
|
|
|
a)
understand cultural diversity within our own nation
|
|
|
|
|
|
b)
understand cultural diversity around the world |
|
|
|
|
|
c)
know the different economic or agricultural systems
in other countries |
|
|
|
|
|
d)
have human relation skills essential in the work
place and the community |
|
|
|
|
* = draft, subject to revision *
last edited: November 1, 2004