How should behavioral objective be written?
Behavioral objectives should be written in a clear and specific manner. They should identify the desired behavior or action, along with the specific conditions and criteria for achievement. Here is a general format for writing behavioral objectives:
1. Verb: Begin the objective with a verb that clearly describes the behavior or action you want the learner to perform. Examples include: identify, explain, solve, demonstrate, analyze, discuss, etc.
2. Conditions: State any specific conditions or constraints under which the behavior should be demonstrated. For example, "Given a set of data," "During a group discussion," or "In a classroom setting."
3. Performance: Describe what constitutes successful performance of the behavior. This should be measurable and observable. For example, "The learner will correctly solve three math problems," "The learner will demonstrate the steps of a scientific experiment," or "The learner will accurately identify key elements of a literary text."
4. Criteria: Specify the standard or degree of proficiency required for successful achievement of the behavior. This may include accuracy, speed, consistency, or other measurable criteria. For example, "with at least 90% accuracy," "within a given time limit," or "by demonstrating consistent understanding across multiple examples."
Example:
Behavioral Objective: Students will identify and explain the main causes of World War II through a written essay.
Verb: identify and explain
Conditions: through a written essay
Performance: the main causes of World War II
Criteria: with at least three relevant causes accurately identified and explained using supporting evidence.
Behavioral objectives should be written using the SMART framework, which stands for Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to write behavioral objectives:
1. Start with the desired outcome: Clearly define what you want the learner to be able to do or achieve as a result of the instruction or training.
2. Be specific: State the objective in clear and concise terms, avoiding vague or ambiguous language. Use action verbs to describe the behavior you want the learner to exhibit.
3. Ensure measurability: Determine how you will measure and assess whether the learner has achieved the objective. Use concrete criteria to define observable and measurable behaviors.
4. Make it achievable: Consider the learner's abilities, prior knowledge, and resources available. The objective should be challenging yet realistic and within the learner's capabilities.
5. Connect to relevancy: Align the objective with the learner's needs, interests, and real-world applications. Explain why the objective is important and how it relates to their personal or professional goals.
6. Establish a timeframe: Set a specific deadline or time frame for accomplishing the objective. This helps create a sense of urgency and focus for both the learner and the instructor.
Example of a well-written behavioral objective:
"The learner will be able to solve 10 algebraic equations accurately within 30 minutes, demonstrating proficiency in solving for unknown variables using the order of operations."
Remember, behavioral objectives should guide instruction, provide a clear target for learning, and help measure the learner's progress.