Attachment 11 Guidelines for Writing Learning Objectives

DOE-HDBK-1078-94

ATTACHMENT 11

GUIDELINES FOR WRITING LEARNING OBJECTIVES

STEP 1: DETERMINE THE ACTION STATEMENT

The first step in developing a learning objective is to determine the action statement. The action

statement consists of an action verb and a direct object. The action verb should identify trainee behavior

that is observable and measurable. For example, in the action statement "start secondary feed system,"

the action verb (start) and the direct object (secondary feed system) are both observable and measurable.

The following is a verb list with definitions to aid in the selection of an action verb for the action

statement:

ACKNOWLEDGE

Recognize and respond to an indication or alarm.

ACTUATE

Put into mechanical action or motion.

ADD

Increase; to perform the mathematical addition process.

ADJUST

Bring a continuous effort into proper or exact position.

ALIGN

Adjust or correct relative position of an item.

ALTERNATE

Change or substitute one to another.

ANALYZE

Break down a complex whole into its component parts.

ANNOUNCE

Give notice of an event or evolution (e.g., via the public address system).

ANSWER

Respond to a request for information.

ANTICIPATE

Give advance thought, discussion, or treatment; foresee.

APPLY

Bring into action; put into operation.

ASSEMBLE

Fit parts together into a complete structure or unit.

ASSESS

Determine the importance, size, or value.

ASSIST

Give support or aid.

AUTHORIZE

Legally approve of action; empower.

BACKWASH

Move air or liquid backward by a propelling force.

BALANCE

Equalize opposing forces.

BEGIN

Commence or initiate.

BLEED

Extract or cause to escape from a contained source.

BLOCK

Obstruct passage or progress.