Quality Matters (QM) Specific Review Standard 2.1 can be one of the most challenging, but also one of the most rewarding, standards to meet in a quality review. Describing your course learning objectives or course/program competencies with outcomes that are measurable will positively impact the alignment of all activities, assessments, materials, and tools used in an online course. To learn more about how to meet QM’s SRS 2.1, watch the video below:
General Standard 2 addresses the necessary components that make up quality learning objectives or competencies, which establish a foundation upon which the rest of your course is based. This standard specifically addresses the inclusion of measurable learning objectives or course/program competencies.
Learning objectives should precisely describe what students will gain from instruction and should avoid vague terminology such as demonstrate, learn, know, or or understand. Measurable learning objectives also provide the criteria instructors need to accurately assess student accomplishments. We recommend using the SMART model when crafting objectives to help you ensure specificity and measurability.
Including active verbs within a learning objective can be a great way to begin measurability in your course objectives. Consult Bloom’s Taxonomy Verb Wheel for inspiration and guidance when it comes to measurable action verbs. Aim for higher cognitive levels rather than simple recall, and ensure that the verb you select matches the method you will use to assess student learning.
Examples of Measurable Learning Outcomes
By the conclusion of the course, students will be able to:
Develop a comprehensive, individualized wellness action program focused on overcoming a sedentary lifestyle.
Create original musical compositions using computer technology.
Select appropriate tax strategies for different financial and personal situations.
Examples of Non-Measurable Learning Outcomes
By the conclusion of the course, students will be able to:
Understand the nature of reasoning.
Demonstrate understanding of the role of digital marking.
Learn basic elements of a media production software interface.
Know basic statistical vocabulary and appropriate data collection.
Citation:
Standards from the Quality Matters Higher Education Rubric, Sixth Edition. Quality Matters. Retrieved from Specific Review Standards from the QM Higher Education Rubric, Sixth Edition