Examples of individual outcomes

Nemeth and Grant Long recently publised the article 'Assessing learning outcomes in U.S. Planning Studio Courses'. (Jeremy Németh and Judith Grant Long, Assessing Learning Outcomes in U.S. Planning Studio Courses Journal of Planning Education and Research December 2012 32: 476-490)

Nemeth and Grant group the dozens of individual outcomes into six categories derived from the planning literature on the subject: communication, professional experience, learning-by-doing, problem-solving, teamwork, and ethics/values as below. I think this is very usuful in desinging the learnig outcomes and associated assessment. These outcomes are applicable to any planning units if you customise to fit into the unit context and objectives.

Professional experience
Examples of individual outcome
- Provide “real world” work environment

- Gain project management skills (budgeting, workflow)

- Understanding quality standards expected in practice

- Learn the planning and plan-making process

- Understand various roles of planner

Communication
Examples of individual outcome
- Graphical/visual skills

- Written skills

- Oral presentation

- Understanding relationship between plans and physical reality
Learning by doing
Examples of individual outcome
- Understanding of how theory informs practice

- Understanding of how practice informs theory

- Application of general planning concepts to specific context

- Learning how to synthesize skills, knowledge, values

- Acknowledge uncertainty/complexity in planning practice

- Recognition of planning as iterative, long-term process

Ethics/values
Examples of individual outcome

- Recognition of broader “public interest”

- Assess planning outcomes on set of values (e.g., justice, sustainability)

- Sublimation of personal opinion

- Creation of ethical foundation for future practice

- Recognize accountability/responsibility to served group

- Acknowledge and challenge systemic power imbalances

Problem solving
Examples of individual outcome

- Ability to formulate logical, defensible planning decisions

- Learn how to evaluate several possible scenarios

- Negotiate oppositional viewpoints

- Recognize importance of flexibility in decision-making process

- Seek appropriate assistance and expertise

- Being creative designing solutions and processes

- Develop critical thinking ability
Teamwork
Examples of individual outcome

- Role recognition in collaborative work

- Understanding basic group dynamics

- Development of leadership qualities

- Gain vital listening abilities

- Development of interpersonal cooperation skills