Undergraduate student learning outcomes
B.S./B.A. graduates from the Biochemistry program will have demonstrated:
- Understanding of the structures and functions of biological molecules.
- Understanding of intermediary metabolism and its control.
- Understanding of molecular genetics.
- Understanding of physical concepts and techniques of the discipline.
- Ability to design and conduct experiments (safely) and interpret experimental data.
- Ability to use computers as information and research tools.
- Ability to collaborate with other scientists, including people of diverse backgrounds.
- Ability to present concepts in oral, written and visual forms.
K-State undergraduate student learning outcomes
Knowledge
Students will demonstrate a depth of knowledge and apply the methods of inquiry in a discipline of their choosing, and they will demonstrate a breadth of knowledge across their choice of varied disciplines.
Critical thinking
Students will demonstrate the ability to access and interpret information, respond and adapt to changing situations, make complex decisions, solve problems, and evaluate actions.
Communication
Students will demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly and effectively.
Diversity
Students will demonstrate awareness and understanding of the skills necessary to live and work in a diverse world.
Academic and professional integrity
Students will demonstrate awareness and understanding of the ethical standards of their academic discipline and/or profession.
Alignment matrix for required courses
B.S./B.A. program student learning outcomes |
BIOCH 100 |
BIOCH 522 |
BIOCH 590 |
BIOCH 755 |
BIOCH 756 |
BIOCH 765 |
BIOCH 799 |
| 1. Understanding of the structures and fundamentals of biological molecules |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| 2. Understanding of intermediary metabolism and its control |
X |
X |
|
X |
|
X |
X |
| 3. Understanding of molecular genetics |
X |
|
|
|
|
X |
X |
| 4. Understanding of physical concepts and techniques in biochemistry |
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| 5. Ability to design and conduct experiments and interpret experimental data |
|
|
|
|
X |
|
X |
| 6. Ability to use computers as information and research tools |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| 7. Ability to collaborate with other scientists, including people of diverse backgrounds |
|
|
|
|
|
|
X |
| 8. Ability to present concepts in oral, written, and visual forms |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
University-wide student learning outcomes |
|||||||
| Knowledge |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| Critical thinking |
|
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| Communication |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
X |
| Diversity |
|
|
|
|
X |
|
X |
| Integrity |
X |
|
|
|
X |
|
X |
Summary of the 2011-2012 Annual Progress Report on Assessment of Student Learning
Two student learning outcomes were assessed by the Department of Biochemistry for the 2011-12 academic year by direct and indirect measures: 1) Understanding of physical concepts and techniques of the biochemistry discipline; and 2) Ability to design and conduct experiments (safely) and interpret experimental data. Both direct measures (student performances in the relevant courses) and indirect measures (survey inputs from biochemistry graduates) consistently demonstrate the positive impact on learning of problem-solving approaches employed for teaching these courses. Requiring students to submit more lab reports to choose from for credit would likely improve students’ writing skills.