Developing SMART Learning Goals and Objectives
When developing learning goals and objectives, think about:
Specific - Clear, concise, specific to learner(s) and task(s)
What exactly am I trying to accomplpish?
Is this goal clear and easy for others to understand what I specifically
want to achieve?
Measurable - Includes observable or measurable criteria or standards by which performance is
judged.
Is success observable?
In what ways can my success be measured?
What are the specific measure(s) and evidence of goal achievement?
Action Oriented/Achievable - Observable behaviors and outcomes that are achievable
What will I know and be able to do and/or what will I have produced
when this goal is accomplished?
Can I identify the action steps (objectives) that will lead to achieving
the goal?
How can I demonstrate goal achievement?
Results-Oriented/Realistic - Clearly define the desired performance that is realistic for the targeted learners
Is my goal achievable?
Do I have the necessary abilities and resources (e.g. time, money,
tools) to achieve this goal?
Are there additional resources that I need to be available in order
to achieve my goal?
Timely/Time-bound - Includes a specific time frame
What is the time frame for accomplishing my learning goal?
When do I expect to achieve my goal?
Example of an IPE Student Learning Objective using the SMART criteria:
Basic template: By ____(time) , the year (audience) student(s) will (action verb/performance)
as measured by (assessment/measure method + standard/criteria).
By the end of the IPEC 281 course, enrolled students will compose an appropriate healthcare team
and justify each member needed to support a patient's plan of care (based on case
and associated assessment rubric). (IPE competency: Teams and Teamwork #s 3 & 4)
Specific The objective is to compose a healthcare team for which the student can articulate
each member's purpose.
Measurable The student will understand and prescribe relevant healthcare providers depending
on the case rubric.
Action Oriented The verbs compose and justify are demonstrable.
Realistic Expectations of the student are within scope and sequence of this course.
Timely A specific time frame has been provided for the student to meet this objective.