What is a PLO?

A Program Level Outcome (PLO) is a measurable outcome statement about what a student will think, know, or be able to do upon completion of an instructional program. 

A PLO can also describe the overall expected measurable results of a project or program being implemented in areas of service that directly or indirectly influence student success.

PLOs are designed and developed by the stakeholders of the course, program, or institutional unit; the assessment of PLOs within the instructional areas illuminate the competencies students attain as a result of a program. PLOs must be measurable so that the difference between the expected achievement and the actual achievement can be identified and narrowed. While the content of an PLO is dependent on the substance of the program, instructional unit, or institutional unit,  five primary traits will always be present: (1) Alignment, (2) Central, (3) Feasible, (4) Meaningful, and (5) Measurable.

Examples of PLOs include the following for the AA-T Degree in Theater:

• • #1 - Creating a Character

    Upon the successful completion of this program, the student will be able to use script analysis and performance techniques to create a character in a live theater performance.

  • #2 - Critiquing a Theater Production

    Upon the successful completion of this program, the student will be able to analyze and critique the various aspects of a theater production (acting, directing and design) without making value judgments.

  • #3 - Performing as a Theater Technician

    Upon the successful completion of this program, the student will be able to perform various tasks associated with the creation and implementation of the technical elements (lights, sound, lighting, costumes, and makeup) of a live theater production.

  • #4 - Working as a Collaborator

    Upon the successful completion of this program, the student will understand the interactions of the various theater disciplines and be able to usefully participate in the collaborative environment of theater.

  • #5 - Cultural and Historical Context

    Upon successful completion of this program the student will be able to analyze and critique elements of the production in their historical and cultural context.

Additional Resources

Students, Find Your SLOs
Outcomes Guidebook