Outcome Based Education (OBE)

We offer a very Simplified, Flexible, and Accurate OBE module for all types of education streams.

Outcome-Based Education (OBE) is an instructional approach designed to guide students in acquiring, developing, and enhancing skills essential for both their professional and personal advancement by emphasizing the mapping, measurement, and attainment of predetermined educational objectives.

Typically, the development of OBE curricula adheres to the ‘constructive alignment’ method, a concept coined by Professor John Biggs in 1999. This approach involves crafting a learning environment that fosters diverse learning activities aligned with the intended learning outcomes.

Let’s delve into the functioning of the Outcome-Based Education (OBE) model and comprehend its workings.

The Outcome-Based Education Process – A Step-by-Step Guide to OBE Implementation

#1: Formulating the Institution’s Vision and Mission

In order to set short-term and long-term goals related to students’ learning outcomes, personal growth, skill development, and overall institutional performance, institutions must establish a clear vision and mission. It is recommended to break down the vision and mission by department initially, aligning them with the overarching goals of the entire institution. Departments can then create their own vision and mission statements that are in harmony with the institute’s overarching vision and mission.

To define their vision and mission department-wise, institutions can follow these steps:

  1. Conduct brainstorming sessions with experts and experienced faculty from various departments.
  2. Engage in conversations with industry professionals and alumni groups.
  3. Analyze the gathered opinions and formulate a robust plan of action.

Once the vision and mission are established, institutions should shift their focus to enhancing the teaching-learning processes, ensuring the delivery of world-class education to their students.

#2: Defining Program Educational Objectives

Program Educational Objectives (PEOs): The anticipated achievements of graduates, outlining their conduct, ethical standards, and career success upon completion of the program.

Outlined below is a systematic procedure for formulating PEOs within educational institutions.

Step 1: Aligning with the institution’s vision and mission statements, formulate a strategic plan to realize the Program Educational Objectives (PEOs).

Step 2: Drafting the PEOs involves collaboration among experienced faculty members and the Head of the Department (HOD), with the initial draft circulated for feedback across departments.

Step 3: Deliberations on the draft and the proposed implementation processes take place to secure the necessary approvals from authorities.

Step 4: The final draft, incorporating input from all stakeholders, is presented to the Program Assessment Committee, which then forwards it to the Departmental Advisory Board.

Step 5: The Departmental Advisory Board scrutinizes the draft, forwarding it to the Board of Studies and Academic Council for ultimate approval. Upon institutional endorsement, a curriculum is devised to foster the personal and professional growth of students.

Step 6: Periodic analysis of student learning outcomes is imperative for identifying and rectifying any learning gaps.

Illustration of Program Educational Objectives (PEOs) – Institutions may opt to focus on the subsequent PEOs:

  1. PEO1 – Advancement of students’ professional development
  2. PEO2 – Cultivation of problem-solving abilities
  3. PEO3 – Enhancement of industry-specific skills
  4. PEO4 – Promotion of creativity

#3: Defining Program Outcomes (POs)

Program Outcomes (POs) refer to the achievements and objectives attained upon completion of a particular specialization or academic discipline. These characteristics are identified throughout a student’s graduation journey and formally established upon the conferral of their degree.

The process of delineating POs for educational institutions involves the following steps:

STEP 1: The Program Coordinator collaborates with senior faculty members to create a preliminary draft outlining the POs.

STEP 2: The Program Coordinator engages with alumni, industry representatives, and employers to comprehend the current industry requirements and trends. Based on the gathered insights, the draft is revised and submitted to the Program Assessment Committee.

STEP 3: The Program Assessment Committee evaluates the draft and forwards it to the Department Advisory Board for final approval.

STEP 4: The Department Advisory Board makes the ultimate decision by moderating and finalising the draft.

The NBA (National Board of Accreditation) has outlined 12 graduate attributes for the achievement of Program Outcomes (POs)

PO1: Acquisition of Knowledge

PO2: Proficiency in Problem Analysis

PO3: System Development and Design

PO4: Resolution of Complex Problems

PO5: Utilization of Cutting-edge Tools and Devices

PO6: Acknowledgment of Societal Responsibilities

PO7: Consideration for the Environment

PO8: Ethical Individual Conduct

PO9: Collaboration in Teamwork and Individual Contribution

PO10: Effective Communication

PO11: Financial and Project Management

PO12: Commitment to Lifelong Learning

#4: Defining Program Specific Outcomes (PSOs)

PSOs are statements that describe what students are expected to know and be able to do upon completion of a specific academic program. These outcomes focus more on the specialized knowledge and skills related to the particular program.

Remember, PSOs are program-specific and may vary based on the institution, the specific program, and its objectives. It’s essential to align the PSOs with the goals and expectations of the academic program to ensure they reflect the skills and knowledge students are expected to acquire.

#5: Defining Course Outcomes (COs)

Course outcomes (COs) represent the overarching goals attained by the conclusion of a semester or academic year. For instance, when a student engages in a specific course, the outcomes are determined based on the grades or marks earned in both theoretical and practical components.

Example of COs: 

Course Title: Indian Domestic Law (INDL007) Course Code: INDL007

Upon completing this Law course, students should be proficient in accomplishing the following:

CO1: Recall
CO2: Comprehend
CO3: Apply
CO4: Scrutinize
CO5: Assess
CO6: Generate

CO-PO Mapping Procedure

The CO-PO mapping procedure operates through the following steps. 

  1. Identify and acquire the course outcomes.
  2. Align course outcomes with program outcomes.
  3. Assign suitable weights to assess course outcomes.
  4. Evaluate course outcomes through assessments administered to students.
  5. Calculate the attainment of both course outcomes & program outcomes.

In summary, when assessing outcome-based education versus traditional education, OBE emerges as the superior choice, providing a high standard of education. Noble OBE Module streamlines and simplifies the complete implementation process and leads to improved outcomes. For any inquiries or to arrange a demo of our outcome-based learning module, contact us today!