Objectives and Student Learning Outcomes (SLOs)

Example from Physical Education-Yoga

• Original: Memorize and perform the three sun salutations.

• Revised: Perform and lead from memory three “sun salutations” poses that incorporate stretch, strength and breath work to facilitate lifelong fitness.

Example from Organic Chemistry

Original: Demonstrate proficiency in classifying, naming and the reactions of carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins.

Revised: Classify and name the reactions of carbohydrates, amino acids and proteins that occur during activities, such as digestion, and are key to understanding how metabolism and the conversion of food to energy works.

Example from Communication in Global Leadership

Original: Formulate communication skills that enable intercultural communication including effective listening skills

Revised: Formulate communication skills that enable intercultural communication, including effective listening skills, recognize and critically reflect upon one’s own cultural biases, evaluate diverse perspectives, and navigate the ambiguity and complexity that comes with multiple perspectives in a variety of cultural contexts.

How does the revised objective/SLOs embody the DEIA lens? 

• Defines technical terminology from the discipline: unfamiliar terms cause confusion and anxiety for students, making it impossible for students to learn

• Includes why students will learn this material/skill: makes the course relevant and relatable to students' lives and academic and career goals

•  Encourages learning and promotes a sense of belonging in the course and the empowerment to take ownership in their learning

• Includes diverse epistemological perspectives and approaches to knowledge and learning

Adding Objectives/SLOs 

Another approach is to add an addition course objective or SLO that commits to understanding inherent racism in the discipline and/or the application of knowledge from the course applies to a student's life and education and career goals

Samples:

• Analyze the colonial and structural racism in the creation and shaping of the discipline and its impacts today.

• Articulate the application of the course to real life situations.