Instructional Objectives: What They Are, What They Aren't

Abstract

Research has found that presenting an instructional objectiove to the students will influence the learning and retention of information. A useful objective communicates to the student an intended instructional outcome, and should convey a vivid verbal description of what a student willbe able to do that is exactly what the instructor intended. A well-stated objective must include a clear statement of obser- vable performance, and should include any required conditions for performance, and a statement describ- ing the standard by which a student's performance will be evaluated. Often the most difficult task in writing instructional objectives is selecting suitable verbs. Clearly stated, well-written instructional objectives enhance communication and are import- ant to deliver instruction effectively.