Educational objectives specify in precise, often measurable terms the results expected from or activities involved in designated aspects of the educational process. Product objectives identify the measurable results expected as a result of specified activities performed under specified conditions. Process objectives identify activities to be…

Systematic planning offers a rational approach to solving the problems of providing education. Four fundamental principles are basic to an understanding of the concept of systematic planning. First, it should relate to all aspects of educational decision-making at all levels. Second, it is a multiphased operation involving establishment of goals,…

Educational goals state broadly and in long-range terms what it is hoped the educational process will achieve, but not how those goals are to be achieved. Goals are preferably set before educational needs are assessed. Goal setting is most effective when ten suggestions are followed: (1) identify and analyze strengths and weaknesses; (2) involve a…

The primary purpose of educational needs assessment should be to determine the specific nature of learner needs in order that programs may be designed and instruction prescribed that will meet those needs. Needs assessment should be conducted only when the information is necessary and will be used. Before a needs assessment is undertaken, it…

Statements of educational need developed through needs assessment processes should not be ranked without careful consideration of factors that can facilitate or impede their attainment. The process of determining the resource requirements for meeting assessed needs and estimating resource availability can be enhanced by following several…

Once planners at the local level have specified the educational objectives of their program, they should determine how those objectives can be reached. The possibility of selecting an adequate strategy is improved if several alternative strategies are generated and analyzed before a decision is made. Suggestions for generating alternative…

Preparation and use of a written plan can increase the chance that people will do what has been planned using the ways selected and specified during the planning process. Program implementation plans should include the following elements: a review of product objectives and strategies; a statement of activities involved in meeting product…

Implementing an educational program on time is not as important as being properly prepared for implementation. The responses to a number of key questions can reveal whether the program has been adequately planned. Once the program is in operation it must be effectively evaluated. Successful evaluation requires a systematic, clear procedure that is…