Statements of intended learner outcomes describe what students should know, understand, and be able to do at the end of a learning experience. These concise descriptions articulate the skills, knowledge, or attitudes learners are expected to acquire. For example, a statement might describe the ability to analyze historical documents or apply a specific mathematical formula to solve a problem.
Clearly defined outcomes provide a roadmap for both instructors and learners. They offer a framework for instructional design, helping educators align teaching methods, activities, and assessments with the desired results. For learners, these statements offer transparency and focus, clarifying expectations and enabling self-assessment. This pedagogical approach has evolved alongside advancements in educational theory and practice, gaining prominence as the focus shifted towards learner-centered instruction and measurable outcomes.