Jacqueline,
I agree. Once they see the importance and the connection of the learning objectives to the program outcomes, it makes it easier to present them with course concepts.
Tremayne Simpson
Clyde,
I also use this method. In addition, I write questions (in parenthesis) next to each agenda item, that we answer after the lecture is completed. This is my structured review method.
Tremayne Simpson
At the beginning of each class I review the learning objectives with the class for the daily lesson. I use the learning objectives from the chapter and information for the day then I add 1 or 2 of my own. Learning objectives are important so that the students know what information needs more of their focus rather than overwhelming them with trying to learn all the information that is presented.
This is important because it guides all other planning for the lesson/class. It would be very difficult to prepare a lesson plan or class without learning objective that have been carefully constructed.
I like to write the objectives/lesson plan for the day on the board. This way the class can stay focused and at the end of class we review those objectives so that we can review what was learned that day.
James ,
I agree with your point. Students are apt to perceiving information in a sequential format, therefore it is important that lesson plans follow that structure, in order to maximize student comprehension. Developing lesson plans that are completely in tandem with the Learning Taxonomy, can ensure a structured approach to the course.
Tremayne Simpson
This is important because the students will have an idea about the specific content of the course.
Students seem to have a "start - finish" approach to many class lessons. If you have a defined objective they are more apt to comprehend the days material through the steps that are presented. By using the learning objective the student knows what is expected of them and they have a "finish line" they can reach.
Using the learning objectives and following the Taxonomy of Learning, defines to the students specifically what they will learn during class, rather than just what we are going to do.
Kleinkauf,
It is also important to thoroughly review the objectives, to ensure that they are worded properly. One "misplaced" word can alter the intended learning outcome, in a particular objective.
Tremayne Simpson
Siobhan,
I agree. It is important that the learning objectives are listed (on the syllabus) in ascending order to reflect the levels of the learning taxonomy.
Tremayne Simpson
This give instructors a sense of organization and allows them to identify what exactly they want the students to get out of the course. This ensures that all important aspects are addressed.
Learning objectives are like learning blocks. We give a little information each day that leads to the big picture. But each day we learn more and more and at the end of the year we put it all together as a whole.
Learning objectives are important as it gives students direction. It tells them what they need to know before they can move on to the next session.
I communicate the daily lesson plan to my strudent in the form of a hand out. The objectives are written on the board, usually I will put up three objectives. I go over it before the start of class. This way I am ensured that everyone is on the same page.
Learning how to construct learning objectives as an important part of instructional planning is very important for the instructor,to stay on track of the subject, able to make assessment of learning. For the students, it gives them a mapping on what they will be learning and to what degree, what is expected out of them for learning.
Thomas,
In support of your observation, instructors must have "contingency" assignments in place for various scenarios, regarding student progress(based on assessment results).
Tremayne Simpson
Renata ,
I agree with your observation. At your institution, are instructors able to create their own learning objectives or are they pre-populated by administration?
Tremayne Simpson
tina,
I agree. In addition, the students (with the assistance of the instructor) can always relate the goals back to their program/major objectives.
Tremayne Simpson
Objectives will give you the ability to break down the complete course into defined and measurable segments. You will then be able to monitor the progress of students and their ability to comprehend the subject matter. Any problems can then be addressed to keep the students from falling behind.
