What you will achieve

At the end of this section, the learner will be able to transform a vague training aim into a clear, measurable, action-oriented learning outcome for a workplace training session.

Defining clear objectives

A learning outcome should explain what learners will be able to do after the training. It should not only describe what learners will “know” or “understand.” For example, “Participants will understand time management” is weak because it is hard to observe or measure. A stronger outcome would be: “Participants will be able to prioritize weekly tasks using the Eisenhower Matrix.” This is clearer because it shows a specific action that can be checked.A strong learning outcome usually includes three things: an action verb, a workplace context, and something that can be observed or assessed. Useful action verbs include identify, apply, demonstrate, write, choose, design, and evaluate. Vague words such as understand, know, learn about, and appreciate should usually be avoided because they do not clearly show what the learner can do.

Connecting outcomes to learner needs

The ABCD model can help trainers write better outcomes. This means thinking about the audience, the behavior, the condition, and the degree. In simple terms, ask yourself: Who is learning? What should they be able to do? In what situation? How well should they do it? For example, instead of writing “Supervisors will appreciate the importance of giving feedback,” a stronger outcome is: “Supervisors will be able to deliver constructive feedback using the SBI model in a role-play conversation.” This outcome is stronger because it includes a clear learner group, an action, a workplace skill, and a way to observe the learning.

Applying your knowledge effectively

Now complete the Outcomes Activity and Learning Check using the Google Form below. In the activity, you will practice rewriting weak learning outcomes into stronger ones. In the learning check, you will answer short questions to check whether you can identify clear, measurable learning outcomes.