A Comparison of Learning Outcomes in Undergraduate Study Programs in the United States and Finland

• In Event: Poster Session 9
  In Poster Session: Learning, Learning Outcomes, and Global Vision

Abstract

Over the past decade, an emphasis has been put on assessing and studying learning outcomes of higher education graduates. The purpose of the study is to compare how program leaders define the learning outcomes of selected undergraduate programs in the United States and in Finland. Participants were interviewed using a semi-structured interview protocol. Thematic analysis method was used to analyze themes and patterns within data that was transcribed. The findings indicated that American undergraduate program leaders defined and assessed learning outcomes based on state-level regulations and subject specific accreditation. Finnish program leaders defined and assessed learning outcomes on a voluntary basis, using rather the notion of ‘competence-based curricula’ than ‘learning outcomes’. Cultural differences are discussed and some implications are presented.

Authors

• Johanna Lahja Lasonen, University of South Florida

• Jani Ursin, University of Jyvaskyla

• Meredith Bogush, University of South Florida