Goals, objectives, and outcomes: case study of a program assessment

This manuscript assesses the outcome of a dental educational program in relation to institutional goals and program objectives. The study, covering the total population of 841 graduates of a dental school from 1972 through 1978, focused on the first classes to complete a significantly revised curriculum. The data identified specific characteristics such as (1) the distribution of dental practices, (2) general practices versus specialization, (3) solo vis-s-vis multiple or group practices, (4) residency training and advanced education, (5) faculty positions, (6) publications and research, (7) hospital affiliations, and (8) community activities. A pattern of responses developed that appears to indicate that those outcomes noted above, when combined with end-of-course and licensure examinations, supports an assumption of achievement of program objectives and institutional goals.