The curriculum statement addresses the “teach it” aspect of assessment. The curriculum statement tells where in the curriculum the students will be exposed to the necessary materials to obtain the knowledge and skills associated with the goal or learning outcome. This can include specific classes as well as any extra-curricular opportunities that would provide students with the opportunity to gain knowledge or skill in the goal area.
Example:
Students will gain knowledge and skills in research methodology by completing PSYC 226 (Research Methods in Psychology), PSYC 227 (Psychological Statistics), and PSYC 228 (Laboratory in Psychology).
Curriculum maps are very helpful in demonstrating where in the program’s curriculum learning outcomes are being addressed. In essence, a curriculum map consists of a table with two axes, one pertaining to program learning outcomes, the other to courses in the major.
Example of a curriculum map:
| Learning Outcome a | Learning Outcome b | Learning Outcome c | Learning Outcome d | Learning Outcome e | |
| Course # 101 | L | L | |||
| Course # 226 | M | L | M | ||
| Course # 310 | M | L | |||
| Course # 360 | L | M | |||
| Course # 430 | M | M | |||
| Course # 465 | H | H | M | ||
| Course # 523 | H | H | |||
| Course # 589 | H | H |
Note: L, M, and H describe the extent to which students experience the learning outcome. L = Low emphasis on the learning outcome; M = Moderate emphasis; H = High emphasis. Every course should contribute to at least a single learning outcome.
Assessment of student learning would ideally take place in the highest-level class that includes a focus on a specific learning outcome. Presumably, that class would be the place in which students ‘put it all together,’ making it the best place and time to conduct assessment.
A program of study (such as the General Education program or a program major) has specific learning outcomes, which are developed by faculty and articulated in the Academic Bulletin. When applicable, use appropriate program learning outcomes in the course assessment plan. “Mapping” program outcomes to course outcomes shows how students develop skills and knowledge in courses that are required for their programs of study. At this point in time, curriculum maps are strongly encouraged, but not required.