Perceived Usefulness of Learning Outcomes Predicts Ratings of Departmental Helpfulness

Abstract

Psychology seniors at a Midwest university reflected on the student learning outcomes (SLOs) for the major. This study examined the relations among students' perceived usefulness of the SLOs, measures of learning, ratings of self-confidence in their knowledge of psychology, and evaluations of the department's helpfulness in students' skill development. Correlations showed few significant relations between usefulness of the SLOs and measures of learning and no relations with ratings of self-confidence. Perceived usefulness of the outcomes was a significant predictor of the department's perceived helpfulness in students' skill development. However, students' perceptions of the department dropped significantly by the end of the capstone course. We discuss implications related to activities teachers might use to enhance learning.