Which of the following best defines a learning objective?

• A. A broad course goal.
• B. A description of the course schedule.
• C. A specific statement describing what a learner will be able to do after instruction.
• D. A list of assessment methods.

Answer: (C)

A learning objective is a precise statement describing what a learner will be able to do after instruction. It is observable and measurable, so both the instructor and student can know when it has been achieved and how to assess it. This helps align activities, practice, and assessment with the intended outcome. The statement that describes a specific performance the learner will demonstrate after instruction fits this definition exactly, which is why it’s the best choice. In contrast, a broad course goal is general and hard to measure, a description of the course schedule is about timing, and a list of assessment methods is about how you’ll test learning rather than what will be learned.