Learning objectives should offer a clear description to the learner and tutor of the purpose and intended outcomes of learning.

They describe what the learner should be able to do on completion of a specific block of learning. Once the learning objectives are determined, everything else should lead to their realisation. The content, learning activities, assessment, language and approach should all support the learner in achieving and testing for the described skills and knowledge.

Clear learning objectives are particularly important when the learner is working towards a qualification outcome or competency framework.

"Being clear about the aims and objectives for a new course will guide the pedagogic strategy which informs the remaining stages, including: topics to be covered, learning activities, assessment and quality assurance."

There is information about learning objectives in Guidelines on e-Learning for the NHS: Salford Report.

For a quick explanation of how to write good learning objectives, Kevin Kruse's summary of Robert Mager’s theory is short and to-the-point giving a good example of clear and weak objectives and the importance of using the correct language.You can find out about Mager's Theory of Behavioural Objectives in the resource "How to write great learning objectives."

Related Resources

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  Guidelines to inform the development of e-learning in the NHS - the Salford Report
  

  A research study by the University of Salford looking at the procurement of e-Learning programmes and a guide to assist in the development of e-Learning in the NHS.

  Download file (215.8 KB pdf)

  
  
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  How to write great learning objectives
  

  Short article looking at the use of learning objectives.

  http://www.e-learningguru.com/articles/art3_4.htm