Distinguishing Outcomes from Objectives

Outcomes vs Objectives

Goals, aims, outcomes, and objectives are tools and concepts used in educational settings. There is much confusion among teachers about outcomes and objectives, and there are many who feel that both are the same to be used interchangeably. However, learning objectives are not the same as learning outcomes. In most instances, learning objectives are outlined in terms of the subject matter that the teacher intends to teach in a semester or the duration of the course while learning outcomes are defined in terms of what students must be able to do or be able to perform at the end of the course. Let us take a closer look at the two related concepts.

Outcomes

Learning outcomes are expectations from the students as to what they will be able to achieve or accomplish at the end of the teaching in a course. However, learning outcomes do not give an indication of the types of activities that will be undertaken during the duration of the course. For that matter, learning outcomes even do not indicate the methodologies that will be used by a teacher, to teach the subject matter to the students. Learning outcomes are actually desired outcomes in the form of what teachers expect from their students at the end of teaching in a course. These days’ teachers write down learning outcomes in the form of verbs that are measurable so as to avoid any confusion or misinterpretation.

Objectives

What a faculty member covers during the duration of a course is defined as learning objectives. Objectives are always specific and measurable. They are also attainable and realistic. All objectives are desired ones, which mean, they reflect what students should be able to achieve by the end of the course. What the students will study, read, gain, and understand is the basis of learning objectives.

Key Takeaways
– Outcomes are expectations of what students will accomplish at the end of a course, while objectives are what a teacher sets out to teach.
– Outcomes do not indicate the activities or methodologies used during the course, whereas objectives are specific, measurable, attainable, and realistic.
– Both outcomes and objectives need to be clearly defined at the start of the course to ensure the development of the curriculum and the responsibility of the faculty.