Learning Outcomes vs. Objectives

Although outcomes and objectives are sometimes used interchangeably, it’s useful to understand how these two concepts are slightly different. The table below outlines the key differences between learning outcomes andĀ learning objectives.

Learning Outcomes Learning Objectives
  • Are statements about anticipated achievements from students
  • Are more student-centered and describe what the learner should learn
  • Are often written from a teacherā€™s perspective
  • Are typically written in terms of an instructorā€™s teaching intentions
  • Indicate what content a teacher intends to cover through instruction, curricula, programs or activities
Learning outcomes are what is hoped students will learn along their journey and are often precise, specific, and measurable. Learning objectives are focused on specific types of performances that students are expected to demonstrate.

Examples of Learning Outcomes

By the end of this course students will be able to:

  • Critically evaluate the connection between human rights and legal definitions of what is meant by ā€˜being humanā€™
  • Describe four dimensions of culture and analyze the effects of those dimensions on communication

Examples of Learning Objectives

  • This course will present different perspectives through the exploration of historical data and presentations by guest speakers, to explore concepts across time and space of what it means to be human.
  • This course will introduce key dimensions of culture and explore how these dimensions influence communication.
Tip While learning objectives are written from the instructor’s perspective, learning objectives are written from the student’s point of view. ObjectivesĀ are bigger picture whileĀ outcomes are more preciseĀ and measurable.
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