QM 2.1 The course-level learning objectives describe outcomes that are measurable. (Essential)

Creating measurable course-level learning objectives is a fundamental principle in educational design, particularly in aligning course content, activities, and assessments effectively. Measurable objectives make clear to students and instructors the expected course outcomes. When objectives are measurable, it's easier to design assessments that accurately evaluate whether those objectives have been met.

Refresh Your Course

General Suggestions

Consult Bloom’s Digital Taxonomy Verbs (see “Related Resources” below) and review the course level objectives to make sure the outcomes are measurable. (e.g., use active verbs and avoid language like "understand" or "learn").
If your course has institutionally mandated course objectives that are not measurable, make sure that your module-level objectives are measurable and tied to course objectives.
Break down extensive course learning objectives into smaller objectives. For example, “Describe the characteristics of radio waves, and list the skills needed to be a successful radio operator” into “Describe the characteristics of radio waves,” and “List the skills needed to be a successful radio operator.” The active verbs (describe and list) warrant different assessments and activities. Splitting them up will provide a clearer approach.

Examples

Here is an example of measurable learning objectives for an introductory course on Digital Marketing:

Objective: Analyze and explain the key components of a digital marketing strategy by the end of the course.
- Measurable Aspect: Students must be able to list the components, describe their functions, and illustrate their relationships within an overall strategy.
Objective: Demonstrate the ability to create a basic digital marketing campaign using industry-standard tools and platforms by the end of the course.
- Measurable Aspect: Students will create a campaign that includes specified elements such as targeted advertisements, content marketing pieces, and use analytics tools to track their campaign’s performance.
Objective: Evaluate the effectiveness of different digital marketing strategies using case studies from real-world brands by the end of the course.
- Measurable Aspect: Students must present their analyses in written reports, citing specific examples and applying standard evaluation criteria.

Faculty Development Opportunities

Intro to Online Course Design Course
Outstanding Course Objectives for Online Courses

Related Resources

Applying The Basics Of Bloom's Taxonomy To eLearning - from eLearning Industry
Bloom’s Digital Taxonomy Verbs - image from Neovation
Writing Effective Learning Objectives from eCampus Center
Aligning Objectives, Assessments, and Activities from eCampus Center