Identify Learning Objectives and Desired Outcomes

Learning objectives and activity outcomes are critical for planning and evaluating Category 1 activities as well as helping prospective participants determine if the activity meets their needs or interests.

Learning objectives should be developed after the educational needs for the activity have been identified. The objectives should support the needs assessment findings.

A learning objective is a brief, clear statement of what the participant should be able to do after participating in the educational activity. A well-written objective is specific and measurable. Keep the following in mind:

• Write objectives from the perspective of the learner. Begin with the statement “At the conclusion of this activity, participants should be able to:”
• Use active verbs, such as those below, and be specific. Avoid vague terms such as "know," "learn," "comprehend," "study," "cover," and "understand."
• Learning must be observable and measurable so that the learner can assess if the activity was successful and beneficial.