A course or program of instruction may consist of a single presentation or a series that structure a more extensive course. The following steps constitute a sample plan for the development of a course of instruction:
- Determine what the audience will learn and set the goal(s) for what the students will be able to do after the instruction.
- Create behavioral objectives. Learning objectives provide the "tools" to achieve the stated goals. Objectives state in observable, measurable terms the knowledge, skills, and attitudes students should obtain by the end of the learning process.
- Develop an instruction plan based on goals, objectives, and the audience (learners). In this step, a teaching style and the best approach to present material should be considered. Technology and tools for teaching should be considered.
- Determine assignments and evaluation activities, including tools for feedback, based on learning objectives and the instruction plan. Assignments must be chosen to ensure learning objectives can be measured. In other words, the teacher must prove that learners have met the intended learning objectives through assignments or other evaluation activities.
- Sequence learning so that it builds on fundamental or previously learned material. Material is typically best received when fundamental concepts are discussed before moving to advanced topics.
- Evaluate if learning objectives were met in a structured and continuous manner. Changes to the instruction plan and assignments should be made as needed to ensure learning objectives are met.
