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SMART Learning Objectives Framework

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About This MicroSim

This interactive infographic explains the SMART framework for writing effective learning objectives. Each letter represents a critical component that makes objectives clear, assessable, and actionable.

How to Use

  1. Hover over any panel to highlight it and see the description
  2. Click on a panel to view additional examples
  3. Click again to close the examples panel

The SMART Components

  • S - Specific: Clearly state what learners will do
  • M - Measurable: Include criteria for assessment
  • A - Achievable: Set realistic goals for the learners
  • R - Relevant: Connect to meaningful real-world applications
  • T - Time-bound: Specify when objectives should be achieved

Embedding This MicroSim

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<iframe src="https://dmccreary.github.io/automating-instructional-design/sims/smart-objectives/main.html" height="502px" width="100%" scrolling="no"></iframe>

Lesson Plan

Learning Objectives

By the end of this activity, students will be able to:

  1. Explain each component of the SMART framework
  2. Evaluate whether a learning objective meets SMART criteria
  3. Transform vague objectives into SMART objectives
  4. Write original SMART learning objectives

Suggested Activities

  1. Exploration (5 min): Explore all five panels, reading descriptions and examples
  2. Evaluation (10 min): Given 10 objectives, mark which are SMART and which are not
  3. Transformation (15 min): Rewrite 5 weak objectives to make them SMART
  4. Creation (10 min): Write 3 SMART objectives for a topic of your choice

Assessment

  • Quiz on identifying SMART vs non-SMART objectives
  • Practical: Write 5 SMART objectives for a lesson plan

References

  • Doran, G.T. (1981). There's a S.M.A.R.T. Way to Write Management's Goals and Objectives
  • Mager, R.F. (1997). Preparing Instructional Objectives