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How to Write Objectives
Guidelines for Writing the Objectives:
Plan in your mind three (3) specific and measurable learning objectives. Think about the work you are assigned now and how well you might be able to do your work by the end of the semester. Talk to your supervisor and/or instructor for any further help or suggestions.
An objective should be stated in terms of results that you intend to achieve.
What will you be able to do after the learning has been accomplished?
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Is the objective specific?
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Have you selected language that can communicate to all interested parties?
An objective should be valid.
Does it relate to your job assignment?
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Is it achievable with the semester time limit?
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Do you have control over its accomplishments?
An objective should be measurable.
Is it stated in terms of the specific results to be attained? If so each party will know the criteria for measuring the level of achievement on each objective?
Writing the Objectives:
Start off with an action verb. Examples are: write, establish, perform, create, edit, operate, revise, analyze, apply, assemble, select, develop, report, install, increase, rearrange, regroup, reorganize, collect, identify, etc.
Be careful of words like: understand, learn, know, or appreciate. It is very difficult to measure how well a student achieves these things.
Now add the standards that the student will strive to achieve. The standards describe how well a student will be able to perform the stated objectives in order to be acceptable. They should usually specify the minimum acceptable skill level or accomplishment. Standards might include such statements as: improve by 95%, not more than once each day, within twenty minutes, etc.
Remember - all objectives must have the following four key elements to be acceptable:
What is the task to be accomplished?
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How will it be accomplished?
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How will it be evaluated (measured) and by whom?
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When will it be completed?
Examples of Objectives:
We will start with a WRONG example. This type of written objective is unacceptable.
I will increase my sales each week. (Vague, incomplete - Does not tell how it will be accomplished, how it will be measured, etc.)
Now here is the same objective written in the CORRECT style.
More correct examples stated in a manner that is specific and measurable.
I will create two music/game lesson plans for a preschool class. To be done by actual experience, instruction from supervisor, and applying current classroom knowledge. Supervisor will evaluate by review of lesson plans. Completion date of April 200_.
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I will learn to read technical manuscripts at ____wpm with comprehension at ____ retention as measured by a standard technical reading examination given by my supervisor at the end of the semester.
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I will increase my layout skill by constructing at least six display ads that will be used by customers at the advertising department. Completion date at end of semester.
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I will demonstrate proper fitting and measuring techniques by assisting costume designer during 10 fittings for this season. Evaluation of pinning by shop manager to be completed by the end of the semester.
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I will improve my production skills by communicating with the director after each live program for ideas on how to better approach the shoot and by asking the director in depth questions on how well I performed my duties. To be completed by May 200_.
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I will increase my travel planning skills by creating a tour opportunity to New Zealand for a large, diverse group and by designing an itinerary that will include both islands and various sites that will be of interest to the entire group. To be reviewed by manager. To be completed by March 200_.
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