Which statement describes a well-formed learning objective?

Which statement describes a well-formed learning objective?

• A. It contains a specific action verb, but lacks a specified beginning or end.
• B. It includes a specific action verb, a beginning and end.
• C. It should include a specific action verb, have a beginning and end, and be observable and measurable.
• D. It only indicates the topic without any outcomes.

Answer: (C)

A well-formed learning objective clearly states what the learner will do, under what conditions, and how success will be measured. It uses a specific action verb that describes observable behavior, so you can actually assess it. It also sets the context or beginning conditions and includes a performance criterion so you know when the objective has been met. The best choice includes all three elements: a concrete action verb, a beginning or condition, and an observable, measurable criterion. That combination lets you both observe the behavior and evaluate whether the learner has achieved it. The other statements fall short because one omits either the conditions or the measurable criterion, another covers conditions but lacks a clear measure of success, and the last mentions only the topic without describing any outcome to be demonstrated.

A well-formed learning objective clearly states what the learner will do, under what conditions, and how success will be measured. It uses a specific action verb that describes observable behavior, so you can actually assess it. It also sets the context or beginning conditions and includes a performance criterion so you know when the objective has been met.

The best choice includes all three elements: a concrete action verb, a beginning or condition, and an observable, measurable criterion. That combination lets you both observe the behavior and evaluate whether the learner has achieved it.

The other statements fall short because one omits either the conditions or the measurable criterion, another covers conditions but lacks a clear measure of success, and the last mentions only the topic without describing any outcome to be demonstrated.