Enabling Objectives - hdbk12000030

DOE-HDBK-1200-97

simulator, or on the job training because classroom activities tend to be cognitive

(knowledge-based) whereas lab, simulator, and OJT are psychomotor (hands-on or

performance-based).

An example of a terminal objective is as follows: Given a mechanics tool kit, the applicable

procedure, and a disassembled motor operated valve, assemble the valve in accordance with

specifications in the motor operated valve maintenance manual.

Enabling Objectives

Enabling objectives support terminal objectives. As stated previously, tasks on which

terminal objectives are based are reasonably broad in scope. Their performance often

involves a number of elements requiring the application of skills and knowledge. Enabling

objectives are often less broad in scope than terminal objectives. Stated differently,

enabling objectives address the steps

TABLE 1. Terminal and enabling objectives

through which trainees progress on

their way to achieving the terminal

All Learning Objectives:

Contain condition, action,

objective.

standard

Are observable and

measurable

Like terminal objectives, enabling

Are clearly stated in proper

objectives also have a condition, action,

format

Are concise/succinct

and standard. However, in enabling

Terminal Objectives:

objectives the condition and standard is

Are broad in scope

often implied rather than expressed

Are limited to single task

Reflect desired performance

because they are the same as those

for selected training setting

expressed in the terminal objective.

Enabling Objectives:

The characteristics of learning

Support the terminal

objective

objectives are summarized in Table 1.

Are derived from the

element, skill, or knowledge

statement

Are more specific than

terminal objective