The five steps of writing objectives

The five steps of writing objectives:

 1.    List the goals of the instruction. An example would be: the student will be able to describe the domains of learning.

  2.    These goals should then be translated into observable or measurable items.

The example: The student will be able to define objectives, discuss five advantages and three limitations of objectives, list the domains of learning, and give an example of an objective within each domain.

 3.    The degree of detail must be considered. This will vary with the level of learning within various contexts or institutions and with the learner. We might take one of the above objectives and state: The student will be able to list the domains of learning with 90% accuracy.

 4.    The circumstances or conditions of evaluation must be stated. Will the student list the domains alone, or with an open book, within 15 minutes, and so on? The objective should include this information.

 5.    The next step would be to take the list of objectives and have them reviewed by other instructors and former and current trainees. The goal is to assess whether the objectives are measurable, clear, comprehensive, and achievable, and whether they adequately reflect course content. Adult learners, in particular, should be widely consulted on the earning objectives. This is practical and feasible in training situation, less so in educational institutions where goals are predetermined.