Learning Objectives and Standards
I believe that standards along with objectives are key to help teachers stay on task and give students an idea of what is expected from them.
Some courses have established standards; others you have more freedom to develop. But it's important to have standards so you can develop objectives accordingly. Some standards, however, are a little vague and might be improved. "Function effectively as a member of a ____ team" for example, could probably have some specific skill sets added to it.
Michelle,
I agree. In addition, I feel that it is more important (and sometimes difficult) for an instructor to maintain their standards and resort to their course policies, at all times.
Tremayne Simpson
I think both are important but it is up to us as instructors to keep the students engaged.
Jeremy,
I believe that there should be a "medium" between "cookie cutter" and complete autonomy, in regards to course structure. Consistent standards are important, therefore the "standard" approach is important for creating learning objectives, however students truly value "authentic" learning experiences and they are typically encouraged by unique instructional approaches.
Tremayne Simpson
Is there problems with the cookie cutter approach?
Standards are extremely important for students when learning. Standards are expectations of what is needed from the student in order to suceed with a specific task. It is extremely important that the instructor gives specific standards for the student to achieve.
Ryan,
I agree. At the very least, there should be "consistency" within the standards of all instructors. A lack of consistency, could negatively impact a student's approach to their classes. For example, if one instructor accepts "late work" and others do not, the student may tend to adapt to the habit of turning assignments in late, because one of their instructors allows it.
Tremayne Simpson
This is true. However, there are instances where the standards are subjective from teacher to teacher within the same institution. That is why there must be a school wide standard that instructors adhear to.
Ann,
This is an excellent point. As an instructor, it is easy to "go on tangents" during class lectures and discussions. Sometimes, the tangent discussions can take an instructor "off track" with their lesson plans and overall direction for the course. With course learning objectives in place, the instructor can always find their way back "on track" with the class.
Tremayne Simpson
I concur- some of my teachers are philosophers, and we work in a career school, so objectives are the ONLY way to keep them on task! As for the students, our accrediting body outlines specific skills they must learn before graduation- these serve as our teaching objectives that we build courses around. Students always know what skills they'll learn in a course because these objectives are listed on each course schedule.
Well put. i agree. If we hold our students to a set of standards and objectives, then they will learn to uphold these, as well as apply them to their careers after schooling.
Your statement is simple and to the point. I agree. The biggest takeaway I get from this module is just how important the Learning Objectives (as most texts have) should be incorporated into the lesson plans. We are not inventing the wheel, but using what has been given to logically fashion the lesson plan.
