Aims & Learning Outcomes
Defining Aims and Learning Outcomes
Good learning outcomes are focused on what the learner will know or be able to do by the end of a defined period of time and indicate how that knowledge or skill or attitude will be demonstrated.
Aims – are overall statements of what the trainer hopes the training will achieve. For example:
“The aim of learners with a range of opportunities to practice communication skills.”
Learning Outcomes – set out what the learners should be able to do or know or understand by the end of the training. For example
“By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to identify and classify their spending habits and prepare a personal budget.
What is the difference between a training aim and a learning outcome?
Answer: A training aim is goal(s) set by the trainer or curriculum to state what the learning will achieve
Learning outcomes state what the learner will be able to know or do or value by the end of the training.
AIMS – RELATE TO THE COURSE
LEARNING OUTCOMES – RELATE TO THE LEARNERS
- KSA Outcome Domains
Learning outcomes are divided into 3 types (known as domains):
- Knowledge – you want people to gain during the session
- Skills – you may want people to develop
- Attitude and values – you may want to introduce or challenge.
| Knowledge |
| Skills |
| Attitudes |
For example:
Describe the roles and responsibilities of a treasurer’ would require people to gain knowledge.
Operate the indicator switch’ is demonstrating a skill.
‘Challenge sexist behaviour’ focuses on participants’ attitudes
By the end of this course, students will be able to work cooperatively in a small group environment.
The learning outcomes should be seen as central to the design process:
| CURRICULUM
OUTCOMES |
| LEARNING
OUTCOMES |
|
AIMS |
| ASSESSMENT
STRATEGY |
The number of each type of outcomes you use for a training session will depend on the subject. Learning to drive, for example, may have more knowledge and skill outcomes whereas equalities training may have more attitude and knowledge outcomes.
