Why do we need curricular mapping?

A curriculum map is a chart that illustrates the connections between Program Learning Outcomes (PLOs) and Course Learning Outcomes (CLOs). As illustrated below, a Curriculum Map is an example of planning that begins with the end in mind. The Curriculum Map displayed below also indicates the level learning outcomes are taught in courses and, as a result, also serves to identify any redundancies and/or gaps in outcome coverage. It is not necessary that all courses will address all outcomes; include the outcomes only of highest importance for your course.

Program Learning Outcomes Core Course A Core Course B Core Course C Core Course D
Written Communication D - - M
Oral Communication - D - -
Information Literacy - I - D
Critical Thinking I - M -
Quantitative Literacy - - D -

Key:

Outcome assessment data not collected for program-level analysis.

Outcome assessment data collected for program-level analysis.

NOTE: In the curriculum map, the level at which the outcome is addressed is identified.

  • Introduced (I), Developed (D), and Mastered (M)

See Curriculum Map Template.doc

Curriculum Mapping Resources

The National Institute for Learning Outcomes Assessment (NILOA) has developed a curriculum mapping toolkit that includes tips and resources to mapping to the co-curriculum. 

Updated: April 24, 2023