I have always found it complicated that the topics covered, the learning objectives, and the SLOs are not quite aligned, but overlap and head toward similar learning outcomes. Furthermore, the offered topics, objectives, and SLOs are typically offered with the SLOs last, but it seems to me that the SLOs should come first (Backward Design theory), aligning the topics and learning objectives with the SLOs. In analysis, I have charted them in the table below, re-organizing the topics and learning objectives to align better with the SLOs, adding subheadings to cluster the topics and objectives. I like my SLOs--they are clear and concise, and I use them as the final guidelines of the summative research paper. I align assignment categories with topics and objectives. I find the MLA SLO and topic limited to English, since few of my students are English majors, and the lack of an MLA learning objective is problematic. I fill in this SLO by teaching, modeling, and requiring students to use MLA, but exploit the loophole in the missing learning objective by teaching students how to use a reference information management system (the SC library provides a free RefWorks account to faculty and students), which supports multiple citing and reference formats, while also teaching them where to find the resources to help them when faced with another paper model, such as APA. For my honors students, I also offer APA templates that they can use in other classes.

Therefore, I would rewrite the SLO of "MLA Formatting: The essay integrates appropriate MLA standards to the following (8) items: heading, running header, fonts, spacing, indentation, works cited page, in-text citations, and correct use of block quotes (if used), with minor errors" as "Formatting: Student is capable of distinguishing between MLA and APA structures, and use library resources (such as the reference librarian, library provided resources, and/or a reference management system like RefWorks) so the final paper demonstrates MLA standards to the following (8) items: heading, running header, fonts, spacing, indentation, works cited page, in-text citations, and correct use of block quotes (if used), with minor errors."