What typically includes a learning objective?

A learning objective clearly states what students are expected to learn by the end of a lesson. It encompasses the desired outcome, which outlines the specific skills or knowledge that students should be able to demonstrate. Additionally, it often includes criteria for achievement, which can help both teachers and students gauge whether those objectives were met.

This clarity and specificity make a learning objective essential for effective lesson planning and assessment. It guides the instructional process and can help in evaluating student performance. To aid comprehension, a good learning objective generally follows the SMART criteria (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant, Time-bound), ensuring that the goals are clear and actionable.

In contrast, vague descriptions of lesson content fail to provide clear direction and expectations for student learning. A personal teaching philosophy focuses on the educator's beliefs and values about teaching rather than on what students will learn. A general overview of the subject does not pinpoint particular outcomes or criteria, making it insufficient as a learning objective.