This module introduces the topic of setting learning objectives in the clinical context and links closely with the module Assessing educational needs. This module briefly considers the roles of the different individuals and organisations involved in setting learning objectives (including the learner, the teacher, the profession and healthcare organisations) and sets this in the context of clinical education. The module looks at how teachers can best support individual students or trainees and summarises ways in which learning objectives can be set.

By the end of the module you should have learned and updated some of the principles behind setting educational objectives and considered some of the issues involved in mapping learning to organisational and professional requirements, as well as to curriculum outcomes and objectives defined by learners themselves. You will also have an opportunity to apply the learning from the module to your own practice through carrying out activities and reflecting on these.

Before you start

Before you start the module we recommend that you spend a few minutes thinking about the following points and noting down some of your thoughts. If you are registered on the site, you can do this in the ‘reflections area’. Click on the ‘my area’ link at the top of the page to access your personal pages. Please note that you must be logged in to do this. Please also note that you will need to contribute to the ‘reflections area’ during the course of the module in order to complete and print out your certificate.