Consider the fourteen student learning outcomes listed in the syllabus. These have been pointed out in the Overview of the modules. For this assignment you look through the modules of the course as well as the syllabus file for the course. This is not asking you to review particular assignments or parts of the textbook, but the actual student learning outcomes listed on the first page of the syllabus.
Choose which four learning outcomes you think were most important for learning the material in the course. (8 points)
Explain for each of your four chosen outcomes, with some detail, how each learning outcome actually helped you learn the subject matter in the course--focusing on what you have learned and not on your grade. Give explicit examples explaining your choice. (16 points--4 points each)
There are fourteen outcomes--which gave you the most difficulty understanding. Explain why. (5 points)
Which part of the course was easiest to follow and which part, of any, did you find to be difficult. Explain why. (5 points)
Which of the outcomes do you think were most important for getting a good grade. (6 points
THESE ARE THE 14 OUTCOME
Outcome 1 -follow written directions, including firm due dates;--Outcome 2 demonstrate chronological order by constructing time lines for historical events;
--Outcome 3- analyze the basics of how historians interpret historical evidence through contemporary
newspaper articles;
--Outcome 4 - identify the areas of the African continent from which the majority of the African
ancestors of contemporary African Americans came;
--Outcome 5 - explain the origins and development of the trans-Atlantic slave trade to the North
American continent;
Full Answer Section
2. Outcome 4: Identify the areas of the African continent from which the majority of the African ancestors of contemporary African Americans came. Understanding the geographic origins of African Americans provided a foundation for exploring the complex history of slavery, colonization, and the African diaspora. This knowledge helped me appreciate the diversity of African cultures and their contributions to the development of the Americas.
3. Outcome 5: Explain the origins and development of the trans-Atlantic slave trade to the North American continent. This outcome was essential for comprehending the historical roots of racial inequality and systemic racism. By examining the trans-Atlantic slave trade, I gained a deeper understanding of the economic, social, and political factors that shaped the institution of slavery and its enduring legacy.
4. Outcome 2: Demonstrate chronological order by constructing timelines for historical events. Developing strong chronological thinking skills is fundamental to historical analysis. By creating timelines, I was able to visualize the sequence of events, identify cause-and-effect relationships, and understand the long-term impact of historical developments.
Most Difficult Outcome
Outcome 6: Analyze the impact of the Civil War on the social, political, and economic development of the United States. While this outcome was important, I found it challenging to fully grasp the complex and far-reaching consequences of the Civil War. The interconnectedness of social, political, and economic factors made it difficult to isolate the impact of the war on each individual area.
Easiest Part of the Course
The most accessible part of the course was the exploration of African American history and culture. The rich tapestry of African American history, from slavery to the Civil Rights Movement, was both fascinating and inspiring. The focus on the resilience, creativity, and contributions of African Americans made the subject matter engaging and motivating.
Learning Outcomes Most Important for a Good Grade
To achieve a good grade, it was essential to master Outcomes 1, 2, 3, and 5. These outcomes formed the foundation of the course and were frequently assessed through assignments and exams. By understanding historical evidence, tracing historical developments, and analyzing the complex social and political issues of the past, I was able to excel in the course.
Sample Answer
Assessing Learning Outcomes
Most Important Learning Outcomes
1. Outcome 3: Analyze the basics of how historians interpret historical evidence through contemporary newspaper articles. This outcome was crucial as it equipped me with the critical thinking skills necessary to evaluate historical sources. By analyzing contemporary newspaper articles, I learned to identify biases, discern fact from opinion, and contextualize historical events within their broader historical framework.