When talking about learning design, we often mention the importance of creating learning outcomes. In Beth’s book, Design to Engage, she compares them to the sport of archery, where we intentionally aim at a target and let our arrow fly. We know where the arrow should go; we just have to figure out how to get there.
Learning outcomes are similar. They are the targets we want our participants to achieve as a result of the learning experience. When we skip the step of writing learning outcomes and dive right into content development, it’s like shooting an arrow while wearing a blindfold. The arrow will often miss the target.
In a recent episode of the Facilitating On Purpose podcast, Beth shared practical strategies for crafting impactful learning outcomes. Here’s a summary to inspire your next learning design project:
- Draft Outcomes Early
Drafting outcomes at the start of the design process offers direction and flexibility. As you learn more about your audience and explore the content more deeply, refine your outcomes to better meet learners’ needs. Keep the learners at the heart of your learning design process. - Define Learning Outcomes Clearly
Clarity is key when creating learning outcomes. Each statement should be specific, measurable, and observable. A great way to begin is with the stem: “By the end of the learning experience, you will be able to…” Focus on what learners should be able to do, know, or value by the end of the session. - Use the ABCD Framework
The ABCD framework offers a structured way to develop robust learning outcomes:
– Audience: Who are the learners?
– Behaviour: What precise, measurable action will they demonstrate?
– Condition: What tools or context will support their performance?
– Degree: What level of performance is expected?
This framework ensures outcomes are clear and actionable. - Be Realistic About Time and Scope
Remember that a session can only achieve so much. Limit the number of learning outcomes based on the available time and complexity of activities. Adjust the verbs in your outcomes to reflect achievable goals within these parameters. - Align Outcomes with Activities and Content
Learning outcomes, content, and activities/assessments should all align. Use an outcomes alignment matrix to help identify and resolve any misalignments early in the design process. - Incorporate Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
UDL principles emphasize separating the “what” (goal) from the “how” (method). Providing learners with multiple options to demonstrate outcomes achievement ensures inclusivity and supports diverse needs. - Remember That Every Outcome Needs an Activity
Every outcome should be aligned with an activity, and every activity should be aligned with an outcome. This helps you make decisions about what should be in or out of the session. - Share Outcomes Effectively
Communicating learning outcomes effectively is just as important as crafting them. Present outcomes in a format that resonates with your audience, whether as bullet points or conversational paragraphs. Ensure your marketing materials align with these outcomes to clearly communicate the session’s benefits.
For more insights on crafting effective learning outcomes, tune into the full episode, The Pivotal Role of Learning Outcomes with Beth Cougler Blom (EP 47), on the Facilitating on Purpose podcast. Let’s make every learning experience learner-centred and outcomes-based!