FTCE Professional Education Practice Exam

What do we call a clear definition of a learning goal along with an accurate measurement means?

1. Learning outcome

2. Operational definition

3. Assessment criteria

4. Instructional objective

The correct answer is: Operational definition

The clear definition of a learning goal, combined with an accurate measurement, corresponds to the concept of an operational definition. An operational definition provides specific criteria that delineate the parameters of a concept, making it measurable and observable. In educational contexts, operational definitions help clarify what is meant by a particular goal or outcome, establishing how progress or success will be assessed. When educators articulate learning goals through operational definitions, they enhance the precision with which these goals can be met and evaluated. This term is vital in assessment and evaluation, ensuring that everyone understands what is expected and how these expectations will be measured, which is crucial for both teaching and learning processes. The other options pertain to related but distinct concepts. Learning outcomes typically refer to what students are expected to achieve after the learning experience, while assessment criteria provide standards against which student performance is measured. Instructional objectives focus more on the specific intentions of instruction rather than the clarity of measurement or definition. Operational definitions, however, stand out in their purpose of linking concepts to measurable actions.