What should be assessed to determine if learning objectives were met during instruction?

To ascertain whether learning objectives were met during instruction, it is essential to evaluate post-test results. Post-tests are designed specifically to measure the knowledge and skills that should have been acquired by students as a result of the instruction. They provide a quantifiable assessment of what students have learned, directly reflecting their understanding of the material covered.

By analyzing post-test results, instructors can compare students' performance against the established learning objectives. If students demonstrate a solid understanding through their test scores, it indicates that the instructional methods were effective and that the learning objectives were achieved. Conversely, if the results suggest that many students did not grasp the material, it may indicate a need to reassess the teaching strategies or course content.

While student behavior, course materials, and lesson plans are relevant in the educational process, they do not directly measure the learning outcomes in the same manner. Student behavior may provide insights into engagement but does not equate to knowledge acquisition. Course materials should support the learning objectives but need validation through learner assessment. Lesson plans outline the instruction strategy but require evidence of learning, which is primarily captured through post-tests. Therefore, post-test results are crucial for determining if the intended learning objectives have been met.