Aligning Outcomes, Assessment
and Activities

According to L. Dee Fink (2003), Significant learning environments are the results of the integrated assemble of situational factors, learning goals, feedback and assessment procedures, and teaching and learning activities. With this in mind, I developed the following plan for an International Business class. I tried to integrate all the components in a cohesive way where activities and assessments are aligned to create significant learning. I designed my three-column table starting from my BHAG, and working backward to plan the course. This way, I was able to keep my end goal in mind and focus on designing cohesive activities and assessments where students flourish in an engaging environment.

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Learning Environment & Situational Factors to Consider

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General Context

There are 25 students in the class.  The class is at the graduate school level.  The class meets once per week over 15 weeks for 3 hours.  The course is delivered in a classroom format.  The physical elements include a large classroom, student desks, a podium for the professor, and good lighting and acoustics. The technology elements include the presence of a computer, a projector and wifi that enable power point presentations and access to the internet to access pdf reports and articles on global business issues.

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General Context of the Learning Situation

Learning expectations by the university include fulfilling the proposed curriculum and all the topics required in the international business course.  Fulfilling the learning objectives, developing globally competent business students. The profession expects students to be able to develop skills that permits employability at the end of the program. Society expects globally competent business students also sensitive to environmental, societal, community interests and needs, including corporate social responsibility - the ability to act in business in a way that is sensitive to the green and social environment. 

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Nature of the Subject

The subject combines theory and practice.  It discusses trade theory for example, but also practical business strategy.  There are important changes owing to the rapid evolution of the way of dong global business, particularly with regards to social media and the growth of other technologies.

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Characteristics of the learner

The life situation of the learners - they are primarily in their mid-20s and have recently completed bachelors degrees. They tend to be more affluent than average citizens.  Their families tend to be professional class.  About half of them currently work in jobs for large companies as professionals.

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My BAHG

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Students must become adept at integrating information about the international environment into their business decisions, including from the economic, political, cultural, strategic and organizational spheres.

 

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3 Column Table