1. Start with the End in Mind:
- Clarify the Purpose:
- Define the Goal:
*Define the Audience:
2. Make the Objectives SMART:
- Specific: Define the exact knowledge, skills, or abilities students will acquire.
- Measurable: Include observable and measurable criteria to assess student achievement.
- Achievable: Set realistic and attainable objectives that students can reasonably attain within given constraints.
- Relevant: Ensure that the objectives are relevant to the subject matter, course goals, and learning outcomes.
- Time-bound: Specify a timeframe or deadline by which students should achieve the objectives.
3. Use Action Verbs:
- Emphasize Learning Outcomes:
- "Understand": Indicates comprehension of concepts, principles, or theories.
- "Analyze": Involves breaking down complex ideas into smaller components and examining relationships.
4. Avoid Vague Language:
- Use Observable Behaviors:
- Be Clear and Concise:
5. Consider Prerequisites and Sequencing:
- Build upon Prior Learning:
- Create a Coherent Learning Path:
6. Align Objectives with Assessments:
- Ensure that assessments, such as tests, assignments, and projects, directly align with the stated educational objectives.
7. Consider Learner Differences:
- Acknowledge and address the diverse learning needs, backgrounds, and abilities of students.
8. Review and Revise:
- Regularly review and revise educational objectives based on feedback from students, instructors, and assessment results.