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Activity Directions
Now that you have written your course objectives, you are ready to begin drafting the modules in your course design map. There are two main steps that you will follow to do this.
- You will start by writing the module-level objectives for one or two modules.
- Once you know what students will learn in a module, you can copy the course design pattern that you identified last week into the course design map and then revise the course design pattern for the week so that the learning activities support student achievement of the module-level objectives.
Before you begin these two main steps, it may be helpful for you to first consider the following information about writing module-level objectives.
Step 01. Writing Module-Level Objectives
Everything you learned about writing course-level objectives in Module 01 applies to the writing of module-level objectives. The main difference between the two types of objectives is that module-level objectives are usually much more specific than the main course objectives. This is because module-level objectives usually play a subordinate, supportive role in achieving the course objectives. The relationship between course objectives and module objectives is outlined in the following Quality Matters Standards.
Quality Matters General Standard 2 – Learning Objectives (Competencies)
2.1 The course learning objectives, or course/program competencies, describe outcomes that are measurable.
2.2 The module/unit learning objectives or competencies describe outcomes that are measurable and consistent with the course-level objectives or competencies.
2.3 All learning objectives or competencies are stated clearly and written from the learner’s perspective.
2.4 The relationship between learning objectives or competencies and course activities is clearly stated.
2.5 The learning objectives or competencies are suited to the level of the course.
The Quality Matters standards define two different levels of learning objectives covered in these standards: (a) broad course-level objectives and (b) more specific module/unit-level objectives which support the broad objectives. These standards emphasize the importance of writing learning objectives at both levels that are measurable, clearly stated, and written to show what the learner will do, not what the instructor will do. It is also important to ensure that the learning objectives are written at an appropriate level of challenge for your students. The learning objectives that you will write in this module will form a foundation upon which all of the assessments, learning activities, and instructional materials are based. Consequently, it is important to spend sufficient time and mental effort to write high-quality learning objectives. Doing so will help increase student achievement and make it much easier for you to teach the course.
Step 02. Design Task Assignment: Begin Drafting Your Course Design Map (with the help of your instructional designer)
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