You make learning outcomes measurable by defining what students will be able to do upon completion of a learning experience and then crafting outcomes that use action verbs which directly indicate assessable behaviors. This involves specifying the level of knowledge expected and structuring outcomes that can be directly observed and evaluated.
Here's a breakdown of the process:
1. Identify the Desired Level of Knowledge
Begin by determining the depth of understanding students should achieve. Bloom's Taxonomy is a helpful framework for categorizing cognitive skills:
| Level | Description | Example Action Verbs |
|---|---|---|
| Remembering | Recalling basic facts and concepts. | define, list, name, recall, identify |
| Understanding | Explaining ideas or concepts. | explain, summarize, interpret, paraphrase, discuss |
| Applying | Using information in new situations. | apply, demonstrate, use, solve, execute |
| Analyzing | Drawing connections among ideas. | analyze, compare, contrast, categorize, examine |
| Evaluating | Justifying a decision or course of action. | evaluate, critique, justify, defend, assess |
| Creating | Producing new or original work. | create, design, develop, formulate, construct |
2. Select Measurable Action Verbs
Choose verbs that clearly indicate observable actions or behaviors. Avoid vague verbs like "understand," "know," or "learn," as they are difficult to measure directly. Instead, opt for verbs that specify what students will do.
For instance, instead of "Students will understand the principles of thermodynamics," use "Students will apply the principles of thermodynamics to solve engineering problems."
Here are examples of measurable action verbs:
- Write: Indicates the ability to compose or produce written content.
- Calculate: Demonstrates the ability to perform mathematical operations.
- Design: Shows the capacity to create a plan or model.
- Explain: Requires the ability to articulate concepts clearly.
- Compare: Necessitates the ability to identify similarities and differences.
- Evaluate: Indicates the ability to assess the value or quality of something.
3. Craft Clear and Specific Learning Outcomes
Formulate learning outcomes that are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). A well-written learning outcome includes:
- Who: The learner (e.g., Students)
- Action Verb: The measurable action the learner will perform (e.g., apply)
- Content: The knowledge or skill to be demonstrated (e.g., principles of thermodynamics)
- Context: The specific situation or condition (e.g., to solve engineering problems)
Example: "Students will apply the principles of thermodynamics to solve engineering problems within a specified timeframe."
4. Check and Refine Learning Outcomes
Review your learning outcomes to ensure they are clear, measurable, and aligned with the course objectives. Ask yourself:
- Is the outcome specific enough?
- Can student performance be objectively measured?
- Is the outcome achievable within the given timeframe?
- Is the outcome relevant to the overall goals of the course?
5. Use a Rubric
Rubrics define the requirements necessary to meet a learning outcome or objective. This further strengthens the measurability of outcomes.
Example:
Learning Outcome: Students will be able to write a persuasive essay.
| Criteria | Excellent (4 points) | Good (3 points) | Fair (2 points) | Poor (1 point) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Argument | Clear and compelling argument | Argument is present but could be stronger | Argument is weak or unclear | No discernible argument |
| Evidence | Strong evidence supports the argument | Evidence supports the argument | Evidence is weak or missing | No evidence presented |
| Structure | Well-organized and logically structured | Generally well-organized | Organization is lacking | Poorly organized |
By following these steps, you can create learning outcomes that are not only clear and concise but also measurable, allowing you to effectively assess student learning and improve instruction.
