Program Learning Outcomes

Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs), Assessment Metrics/Timeline, and Relevant Standards

The Department of Speech-Language Pathology seeks excellence in the academic and clinical preparation of students in our graduate program, in conducting research, and in the provision of services to the University and the community at large (Department Mission). The Department aspires to provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to solve clinical problems, administer comprehensive assessments, and implement evidence-based interventions for a diverse client population in both medical and school-based settings (Department Goal). Faculty have established a set of graduate program learning outcomes (PLOs) that are consistent with this mission and these goals and are aligned with national and state standards as well as CSULB institutional learning outcomes (ILOs). PLOs are formally evaluated by the faculty on a rotating basis using suggested assessment metrics and other relevant data. This ensures that the program maintains consistent standards in these areas and revises academic and curricular programs as needed.

 

Students demonstrate the ability to make differential diagnoses among developmental and acquired speech, language, and communication disorders across the lifespan, and to identify clinical manifestations of cognitive and swallowing disorders.

  • ILO Alignment:
    • Demonstrate a strong liberal education foundation in oral and written communication, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and information literacy skills to become civically engaged human beings
    • Promote and participate respectfully with our diverse community.  Actively engage in self-reflection and critical analysis of one’s own perspectives and biases and value other’s perspectives;
  • Assessment Timeline: Annually
  • Assessment Metrics:
    • Presentation assignments in the following courses: SLP 661, 662, 663, 665, 666, 667, 668, 672, 676, and 696
    • Clinical Practicum Evaluations (CALIPSO) in SLP 669A, 669J, 669H, 670, and 686A
  • Relevant Standards:
    • CAA Standards: ​3.1.1B, 3.1.6B
    • CFCC Standards: IV-H, V-A, V-B
    • CTC Standards: ​PD Standrad 3, 4; SLP Standrad 4, 5, 7

Students can write professional, clear, and well-structured clinical reports, research papers, and documentation based on research evidence and clinical data.

  • ILO Alignment:
    • Demonstrate a strong liberal education foundation in oral and written communication, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and information literacy skills to become civically engaged human beings
    • Integrate and engage in evidence-based decision making, life-long learning, curiosity, collaboration, innovation, critical thinking and research and creative activities in understanding and analyzing the world
  • Assessment Timeline: Every two years (e.g., 2025, 2027, 2029)
  • Assessment Metrics:
    • Research paper in SLP 696
    • Written assignments in the following courses: SLP 661, 662, 663, 665, 666, 667, 668, 672, 676
    • ​Clinical reports in SLP 669A, 669J
    • Clinical Practicum Evaluations (CALIPSO) in SLP 669A, 669J, 669H, 670, and 686A
    • Comprehensive examination or Thesis
  • Relevant Standards:
    • CAA Standards: ​3.1.1B, 3.1.6B
    • CFCC Standards: IV-F, IV-H, V-A, V-B
    • CTC Standards: ​PD Standrad 5; SLP Standrad 4, 5

Students will demonstrate accountability, integrity, collaboration, professionalism, and cultural competence and humility when working with clients, caregivers, and other professionals from diverse backgrounds to optimize client-centered services.

  • ILO Alignment:
    • Value equity, diversity, social justice, and global citizenship and promote the public good in local, national, and global communities
    • Promote and participate respectfully with our diverse community.  Actively engage in self-reflection and critical analysis of one’s own perspectives and biases and value other’s perspectives
  • Assessment Timeline: Annually
  • Assessment Metrics:
    • Case studies in the following courses: SLP 678, 679 and 696
    • Clinical Practicum Evaluations (CALIPSO) in SLP 669A, 669J, 669H, 670, and 686A
  • Relevant Standards:
    • CAA Standards: ​3.1.1B, 3.1.6B
    • CFCC Standards: IV-H, V-A, V-B
    • CTC Standards: ​PD Standrad 2, 3; SLP Standrad 4, 5

Students implement evidence-based and culturally responsive practices to effectively identify clients’ strengths and areas for improvement, and to develop measurable goals and objectives as well as a client-centered intervention plan.

  • ILO Alignment:
    • Integrate and engage in evidence-based decision making, life-long learning, curiosity, collaboration, innovation, critical thinking and research and creative activities in understanding and analyzing the world
    • Integrate foundational knowledge with disciplinary or professional competency to successfully lead personal, civic, and professional lives they consider meaningful
  • Assessment Timeline: Every two years (e.g., 2024, 2026, 2028)
  • Assessment Metrics:
    • Case studies in the following courses: SLP 661, 662, 663, 665, 666, 667, 668, 672, 676
    • ​Clinical reports in SLP 669A, 669J
    • Clinical Practicum Evaluations (CALIPSO) in SLP 669A, 669J, 669H,  670, and 686A
    • Comprehensive examination or Thesis
  • Relevant Standards:
    • CAA Standards: ​3.1.3B, 3.1.4B
    • CFCC Standards: IV-D, IV-H, V-A, V-B
    • CTC Standards: ​PD Standrad 3, 5; SLP Standrad 2, 3, 4

Students design and implement strengths- and needs-based intervention plans, analyze clinical data, and adjust therapy in response to clients’ progress and challenges.

  • ILO Alignment:
    • Demonstrate a strong liberal education foundation in oral and written communication, critical thinking, quantitative reasoning, and information literacy skills to become civically engaged human beings
    • Value equity, diversity, social justice, and global citizenship and promote the public good in local, national, and global communities
  • Assessment Timeline: Every two years (e.g., 2024, 2026, 2028)
  • Assessment Metrics:
    • Case studies in the following courses: SLP 661, 662, 663, 665, 666, 667, 668, 672, 676
    • ​Clinical reports in SLP 669A, 669J
    • Semester therapy plan and Clinical Practicum Evaluations (CALIPSO) in SLP 669A, 669J, 669H, 670, and 686A
    • Comprehensive examination or Thesis
  • Relevant Standards:
    • CAA Standards: ​3.1.5B
    • CFCC Standards: IV-D, IV-H, V-A, V-B
    • CTC Standards: ​PD Standrad 3; SLP Standrad 5

Students clearly and professionally explain clinical interpretations and concepts, deliver clinical results, and respond to questions in an audience-friendly and culturally appropriate manner.

  • ILO Alignment:
    • Cultivate physical/mental health and well-being of self and community, and promote economic, socio-cultural, and environmental sustainability to thrive
    • Value equity, diversity, social justice, and global citizenship and promote the public good in local, national, and global communities
  • Assessment Timeline: Every two years (e.g., 2025, 2027, 2029)
  • Assessment Metrics:
    • Presentation assignments in the following courses: SLP 575, 678, 679
    • Clinical Practicum Evaluations (CALIPSO) in SLP 669A, 669J, 670, and 686A
  • Relevant Standards:
    • CAA Standards: ​3.1.1B
    • CFCC Standards: IV-H, V-A, V-B
    • CTC Standards: ​PD Standrad 4; SLP Standrad 7