Tips for Writing Learner (Participant) Objectives
- Learner objectives are brief descriptions of specific things a participant attending the presentation will know or be able to do following the presentation. They should be succinctly expressed using precise action verbs.
- Objectives are derived from the presentation’s overall purpose/goal(s) and contain an action verb and a content area.
- The number of objectives should be sufficient to accomplish the presentation’s intended purpose/goal(s).
- Objectives must be submitted to describe the learner-oriented outcomes which may be expected as a result of participation in the educational activity. These statements describe knowledge, skills, and attitude changes that should occur upon successful completion of the training.
- Learner-oriented outcomes must be expressed in measurable terms (using measurable, behavioral verbs), identify observable actions, and specify one action or outcome per objective. Examples of commonly used measurable, behavioral verbs:
- Classify
- Compare
- Demonstrate
- Describe
- Develop
- Differentiate
- Discuss
- Explain
- Identify
- List
- Name
- State
- Base your objectives on completing the following statement: Upon completion, the learner (participant) will be able to…
- The ANA ANCC requires a minimum of one objective for each 60-minute presentation.
Examples:
- Discuss evidence-based practice utilized in a perioperative setting.
- Demonstrate an understanding of basic aseptic techniques.
- Evaluate the processes used to implement staff self-scheduling.
- Compare and contrast methods of block scheduling.