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18 May 2015
Brief

The Art and Science of Student Learning Objectives: A Research Synthesis

Lisa Lachlan-Haché

Student learning measures have rapidly become common in teacher evaluation systems across the United States. Over half of the country’s states have required, recommended, or identified “student learning objectives” (SLOs) as a measure of student growth for use in educator evaluation. Although SLO-type measures vary significantly in terms of scope, stakes, scoring, and use of assessment, all SLO measures require a combination of analysis and professional judgment.

This report provides an overview of key findings from the nearly 20 studies of SLO measures that have been conducted to date, along with considerations for future research and for practice. The highlighted studies largely focus on early implementation, examining implementation challenges, educator perceptions of SLO effects on teacher practice, SLO quality and attainment over time, and  correlations between SLOs and other educational outcomes.

PDF icon The Art and Science of Student Learning Objectives: A Research Synthesis (PDF)

Related Work

19 Apr 2015
Guide

What We Know About SLOs: An Annotated Bibliography of Research on and Evaluations of Student Learning Objectives

A companion piece to The Art and Science of Student Learning Objectives: A Research Synthesis, this annotated bibliography provides brief summaries of individual studies conducted in nine states and districts, highlighting general research context and questions, study methodology, and key findings.
Topic: 
Education, Teacher Preparation and Performance

Further Reading

  • Essential Components of Student Learning Objectives Implementation: A Practice Brief
  • What We Know About SLOs: An Annotated Bibliography of Research on and Evaluations of Student Learning Objectives
  • Student Learning Objectives as Measures of Educator Effectiveness: The Basics
  • Implementing Student Learning Objectives: Core Elements for Sustainability
  • Student Learning Objectives: Benefits, Challenges, and Solutions
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Lisa Lachlan

Lisa Lachlan

Principal Researcher

Topic

Education
Teacher Preparation and Performance

RESEARCH. EVALUATION. APPLICATION. IMPACT.

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