Analysis on learning outcomes achievement in a Problem-based Laboratory (PBLab) course

A Problem-based Laboratory (PBLab) has been established as one of the core courses for a Bachelor of Engineering (Electrical) program at Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) since 2007. Many initiatives have been made especially in reviewing the PBLab assessment methods to ensure that the students are properly assessed and their ability to acquire both technical and generic skills can be successfully measured. This paper presents the analysis made on the students' grades in relation to the key performance indicator (KPI) achievements of the PBLab Course Outcomes (CO). The analysis focuses on the level of CO achieved through the PBLab which maps to the Program Outcome (PO). The list of PO and the types of assessment used for the PBLab are examined. The students' marks as given by the facilitators based on various assessment criteria are processed to calculate the KPI value that defines the level of CO achievement in the PBLab course. The findings of the research have shown that there is inconsistency between the marks obtained by the students and the KPI values calculated for each of the PBLab CO. Further investigation and analysis is needed in resolving this inconsistency to ensure that the students' grades can up to certain extend reflect their capability in achieving the PBLab outcomes which maps to the program outcomes.