A learning target for a test is a broad category that encompasses the specific learning goals students should aim to achieve during the test. It's not just about the topics covered, but also the thinking processes and skills students need to demonstrate.
Understanding Learning Targets
Learning targets help clarify what a test is truly assessing. Instead of focusing solely on content, they outline the intellectual and practical abilities being measured.
Types of Learning Targets
According to the reference, learning targets can be categorized as:
- Reasoning Targets: These targets focus on the thought processes students use to:
- Solve problems
- Form judgments
- Draw conclusions
- For example, a reasoning target for a math test might be to “analyze the given information and choose the most efficient equation to solve the problem”.
- Skill Targets: These targets relate to the practical abilities or skills students must demonstrate. This includes the ability to:
- Complete a process
- Demonstrate something
- For example, a skill target for a science test might be to “correctly set up laboratory apparatus and follow the lab procedure”.
Why Are Learning Targets Important?
- Clarity: They provide a clear understanding of what the test is assessing, helping both students and teachers align their study and instruction.
- Focus: They shift the focus from rote memorization to applying knowledge and skills.
- Assessment: They guide the creation of better and more relevant tests, ensuring they measure what they intend to measure.
Example of a Test with Learning Targets
| Subject | Learning Target Category | Specific Example |
|---|---|---|
| Math | Reasoning | * "Analyze data presented in different formats (graphs, tables) to solve problems related to real-world scenarios." |
| Science | Skill | * "Conduct and record observations accurately in lab experiment according to the given procedures and guidelines." |
| English | Reasoning | * "Draw logical conclusion based on the text presented and identify the main theme from the passage provided". |
Learning targets move beyond just listing topics covered to focusing on the actions a student needs to perform during a test to demonstrate mastery.
