Mapping Assessments to Outcomes

When designing assignments, the particular level or cognitive category of learning targeted by the learning outcome is an important consideration. (Bloom’s Taxonomy).

Match the task, activity and requirements of an assignment to the cognitive category of learning.

Examples:

• If your learning outcome states that students will recall factual information, you might assess that through a fill-in-the-blank question on a test.
• If your learning outcome states that students will apply concepts, you might assess that through a problem set or reading response.
• If your learning outcome states that students will design/create something new, you might assess that through a presentation or piece of artwork.

It’s important to select activities and assignments that are aligned to the cognitive levels of learning outcomes.