Write Measurable Goals and Objectives

Why is this important?

Learning goals and learning objectives are the foundation of a well-designed course. While these two terms or often used interchangeably, there are some important differences between the two. For the purpose of this professional development,

• learning goals are what we will refer to when discussing the broad goals of a course. These are the outcomes you want your students to have obtained when the course ends. 
• learning objectives are what we will refer to when discussing the module specific, measurable, outcomes within the course.

Learning objectives are the building blocks that lead students toward mastering the learning goals of a course and help students know exactly what they need to be able to do in order to reach those course goals. However, learning objectives also help faculty develop a quality course. Learning objectives can help ensure everything you incorporate in your course aligns in a way that will help students reach the learning goals of a course, program, and even institution.

The video below gives a great overview of writing measurable learning objectives. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to reach out to your assigned instructional designer. 

Creating Measurable Objectives: Quick Tips

1. Identify/create four to six course goals.
   • Ask "What are the broad takeaways of this course?"
   • Sometimes learning goals are pre-determined by accrediting bodies or program requirements. Many times, they are what have been traditionally been provided in a course syllabus and approved by either graduate or undergraduate curriculum council. If you are unsure of what your course goals should be, it would be a great first st  ep to check with your program's online coordinator or chair.
2. Identify/create concrete learning objectives for each week/module of your course.
   • Learning objectives should provide a clear and measurable statement of what students should be able to do or complete 
   • Utilize the ABCD Model
   • Be sure to include a clear and measurable behavior

Learn how to write great learning objectives from this great video