Building a Learning Plan

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The learning plan provides students with a general outline of topics covered, what they are going to be doing in class, and how they need to prepare for class. The learning plan is the final step in the backward design process, connecting the CLOs to the content and learning activities.

Note

A learning plan may be organized in weeks defined by week number or exact dates, or in modules that group related content together. When using modules, it is recommended that an approximate duration of completion for that module be provided. For example: “This module is anticipated to take 2 weeks to complete” or noting “(weeks 1-3)” below the module title.

Steps

1

Indicate the Week/Module being created. If it is a module, be sure to specify the week(s) it covers in the intended learning objectives/outcomes section.

2

Identify which CLOs are addressed in this week/module. Remember, all CLOs must be covered in at least two separate weeks of content and can be repeated as needed.

3

Identify the intended learning objectives/topics.

Important

Depending on the course delivery mode, you may need to complete more than one section to specify the in-person, online, or hybrid learning objectives/topics. These sections should have unique learning objectives/topics.

  • This section answers the question “What can a student expect to learn/do by the end of this week/module?”
  • Include the overall topic and key learning objectives for the week. Aim for three (3) clear and measurable learning objectives per class.

4

Specify student preparation required for authentic, meaningful and fulsome participation in the class. This may include readings, watching videos, practicing skills, reviewing instructions for labs/simulations/shops, bringing required equipment, completing worksheets or quizzes, or preparing an argument or discussion points.

1.

Indicate the Week/Module being created. If it is a module, be sure to specify the week(s) it covers in the intended learning objectives/outcomes section.

3.

Identify which CLOs are addressed in this week/module. Remember, all CLOs must be covered in at least two separate weeks of content and can be repeated as needed.

3.

Identify the intended learning objectives/topics.

Important

Depending on the course delivery mode, you may need to complete more than one section to specify the in-person, online, or hybrid learning objectives/topics. These sections should have unique learning objectives/topics.

  • This section answers the question “What can a student expect to learn/do by the end of this week/module?”
  • Include the overall topic and key learning objectives for the week. Aim for three (3) clear and measurable learning objectives per class.

4.

Specify student preparation required for authentic, meaningful and fulsome participation in the class. This may include readings, watching videos, practicing skills, reviewing instructions for labs/simulations/shops, bringing required equipment, completing worksheets or quizzes, or preparing an argument or discussion points.

Note

When creating the intended learning objectives/topics for each class/week, apply UDL principles and consider incorporating active learning strategies to your class time to encourage active participation and durable learning.