The Role of Learning Objectives in Planning Instruction

Learning objectives state what a student, course or program will achieve or do when provided with certain resources by the end of a specified period of time. A widely used guide to writing learning objectives is the acronym SMART which stands for specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and time-related. Learning objectives need to be specific enough and written in clear language so they accurately describe the purpose of the activity, lesson or course, and guide the planning and development of future lessons; measureable so students’ achievement can be described, assessed and evaluated; achievable for the students’ skill and knowledge levels; relevant and meaningful for the students; and can be accomplished within the available time period.

SMART objectives guide the teacher when planning learning activities. Measureable objectives provide the teacher and students with information needed to plan formative and summative assessment tools to measure the amount of progress that students have made for one or more lesson objectives. This information helps the teacher determine if new learning objectives should be introduced or is re-teaching is needed. Unachievable objectives could result in frustration for the students because the learning activities are beyond their zone of proximal development. Relevant and meaningful objectives and activities that are achievable in the allotted time will be highly motivating and could increase students’ participation and learning.

Clearly stated learning objectives allow the teacher to state why the activities are necessary to advance skills. This reason can then be articulated to the students and other people of interest such as the program co-ordinator.

Program objectives provide necessary information for students when selecting an appropriate course to advance their skills. The objectives guide institutions in developing courses to meet the needs of students at all levels that they intend to serve. Course objectives give teachers information about the approximate level of the students enrolled in the program as well as the expected level of skills and knowledge by the end of the course. Program objectives can be used by teachers to plan specific learning activities, gather resources for the lessons, and plan a timeline in order to ensure all objectives are covered by the end of the program.