Essential Learning Outcomes (ELOs): Forming a Bridge between College and the Workplace

Abstract

Employers increasingly indicate the need for employees who have demonstrated proficiency in skills and knowledge that cut across majors such as written and oral communication, teamwork, ethical decision making, critical thinking, and the ability to apply knowledge in real-world settings. The Association of American Colleges and Universities (AAC&U) identifies these five skills as those most highly valued by employers. In addition, AAC&U includes these five skills among the ten essential learning outcomes (ELOs) the organization identifies as outcomes of a liberal arts education. To comply with the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business’ (AACSB) assurances of learning standards, Business school faculty must develop, monitor, evaluate, and revise the substance and delivery of curricula and assess the impact of curricula on learners. This article will focus on the ways in which the Stockton University School of Business incorporates alignment of AACSB's assurances of learning with the institution's ELOs as part of its assessment process.