Observable and measurable learning objectives are statements that clearly describe what a learner will know and be able to do by the end of a learning period, in a way that can be seen and assessed.
According to educational principles, including the provided reference, a learning objective is a statement that clearly and precisely describes what the learner will know and be able to DO by the end of the course, module or unit. Importantly, in addition to being observable and measurable, learning outcome statements have to focus on student action.
This means effective learning objectives go beyond simply stating what a student should understand or appreciate. They specify concrete actions or outcomes that demonstrate the learning has occurred.
Understanding "Observable"
When a learning objective is observable, it means that a teacher or evaluator can witness the learner performing the action described in the objective. You can see, hear, or otherwise directly perceive the student doing something specific.
- Focus: What the student does that can be directly perceived.
- Examples of observable actions:
- Solving a problem
- Writing an essay
- Presenting findings
- Constructing a model
- Identifying parts of a system
- Discussing a concept
Non-observable actions often relate to internal mental states (like "understand," "know," "appreciate," "believe"), which cannot be directly seen or heard.
Understanding "Measurable"
When a learning objective is measurable, it means there is a way to assess the quality, quantity, or accuracy of the learner's performance of the action. Measurability allows you to determine how well the learner achieved the objective or if they achieved it at all.
- Focus: How the student's performance or resulting product can be evaluated against criteria.
- Examples of measurement:
- Accuracy: Number of correct answers, percentage of items identified correctly.
- Quality: Use of a rubric to assess a written piece or presentation.
- Speed/Efficiency: Time taken to complete a task.
- Completion: Successful construction of a functional item.
- Frequency: How often a behavior occurs.
Measurability often relies on using clear criteria, rubrics, tests, or other assessment tools.
Why are They Important?
Observable and measurable learning objectives are crucial because they:
- Clarify Expectations: Students know exactly what they are expected to do and demonstrate.
- Guide Instruction: Teachers know what skills and knowledge to focus on and how to design activities.
- Enable Assessment: They provide a clear basis for evaluating student learning progress and achievement.
- Improve Course Design: They help structure content and activities logically towards desired outcomes.
Examples
Here's a comparison highlighting the difference:
| Not Observable/Measurable | Observable and Measurable Objective |
|---|---|
| Students will understand the water cycle. | Students will draw and label the stages of the water cycle. |
| Students will know key historical dates. | Students will list the key dates and events of the Civil War. |
| Students will appreciate poetry. | Students will analyze a given poem using literary terms. |
| Students will be familiar with laboratory safety procedures. | Students will demonstrate the correct use of personal protective equipment in the laboratory. |
Notice how the observable and measurable objectives use action verbs that describe a specific task the student must perform ("draw and label," "list," "analyze," "demonstrate") which can then be evaluated.
In summary, observable and measurable learning objectives define specific, demonstrable student actions that can be assessed to determine the extent of learning. They are fundamental to effective teaching and assessment design.
