Outcome-Based Education: An Educational Strategy

The move to OBE (outcome-based education) has been discussed as one of the most important trends in higher education in the present era. This paper defines outcomes and outcome-based education, describes the development of outcome-based education, identifies several different ways that outcomes have been presented, and discusses the advantages and disadvantages of the outcome-based educational approach. The implementation of outcome-based education in higher educational institutions is described as a case study for curriculum planners in the higher educational institutions. The lessons learned from many of the experiences and steps practised as a part of an automation project at higher educational institutions. DEFINITION Outcomes The definition highlights that an outcome is the ultimate manifestation of learning, emphasising the observable skills or knowledge a student should possess by the conclusion of a course OBE (Outcome Based Education) The essence of Outcome-Based Education (OBE) is captured in the notion that, as articulated by Harden and colleagues, “product defines process.” In OBE, the focus is on results, and it stands in contrast to input-based education where the emphasis lies on the educational process, and the outcome is accepted regardless. The distinction between outcome-based education and merely generating outcomes within an existing curriculum is emphasised. As Spady asserts, being “outcome-based” is not about overlaying outcomes onto a curriculum; instead, it signifies a transformative approach to education, fundamentally altering how education is conducted. OBE, therefore, represents a shift towards a results-oriented paradigm in education.