Characteristics of Learning Outcomes Statements

Learning outcomes should:

• reflect broad conceptual knowledge and adaptive vocational and generic skills
• reflect essential knowledge, skills or attitudes
• focus on results of the learning experiences
• reflect the desired end of the learning experience, not the means or the process
• represent the minimum performances that must be achieved to successfully complete a course or programme

Before starting to write learning outcomes, the following aspects should be considered

• Learning outcomes refer to vocational qualifications, not to the individual's specific development. The learning outcomes which are to be stated should be based on the learning achievements of an average learner. Learning outcomes are formulated from the perspective of the learner (not from the perspective of the instructor). Learning outcomes do not state the learning target or the learning path, but the result following the completion of a learning process.
• Learning outcomes should be verifiable and assessable. Learning outcomes should be written in specific, verifable terms.
• The nature of the learning process and the learning method itself are not relevant for the description of learning outcomes.
• The number and the grade of complexity of learning outcomes pertaining to a learning unit depend on the context and the objective of the training course.

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