Evaluation of Learning Objectives

DOE-HDBK-1200-97

5. EVALUATION OF LEARNING OBJECTIVES

An assessment of training courses or programs should be performed on a continuing basis.

Learning objectives provide a basis for these program evaluations. Quality of performance

can be assessed for individual trainees or across classes or programs.

Learning objectives should be revised if the results of this assessment, trainee or supervisor

input, or trainee performance failures indicate the learning objectives are not adequate.

Learning objectives should also be reviewed and revised accordingly when procedure

changes, facility modifications, or facility/industry events indicate a need to revise training.

Other factors may be the cause of trainee performance problems other than the objectives

themselves. For example, the objective may be appropriate, but the sequencing is not, or

the instruction is not aligned with the objective.

As with the original learning objectives for a course, revised objectives must be reviewed

and approved for use. Attention should be given to rewritten objectives to insure they meet

the desired intent of the revision.

The following are key considerations relative to learning objectives that should be

emphasized when evaluating a course or program:

Learning objectives are used to identify training content and satisfactory

trainee performance.

Learning objectives identify observable and measurable trainee action or

behavior.

Test items are appropriate for learning objectives.

Learning objectives are compatible with expected entry level skills and

knowledge of trainees.

Learning objectives are sequenced to assist trainees in making transitions

from one skill level to another.

Learning activities are derived from the learning objectives.