Specific
What exactly are we going to do/ with or for whom?
- The objective is concrete, detailed, focused and well defined.
- The outcome is stated in numbers, percentages, or frequency.
- The objective communicates what you would like to see students learn.
Measurable
Is it measurable and can we measure it?
- The objective can be observed and assessed.
- The measurement source is identified.
- All activities should be measurable at some level.
Achievable
With a reasonable amount of effort and application can the objective be achieved?
- The objective or expectation of what will be accomplished must be realistic given
- The time period,
- Resources allocated, etc.
Realistic
Can you realistically achieve the objectives with the resources you have?
- Objectives should be realistic but that does not mean easy.
- Your objective is probably realistic if you believe it can be accomplished.
Timely
When will this objective be accomplished?
- State clearly when the objective will be achieved.
- Deadlines create the all-important sense of urgency.
SMART Objective Examples:
- Students will use a list of criteria to determine whether an anatomical structure is an organ.
- Given a disease scenario, students will be able to identify the source of the disease and prescribe a treatment plan.
- Differentiate relevance among a set of clinical data related to patients with selected cardiac arrhythmias.
- Describe the major potential side effects of medications on gum health.
- Analyze the structure and function of health care delivery systems and their impact on community health nursing.