Such an explicit definition of the objectives of a course is referred to I programmed learning language as “ criterion behaviour . ” However this not only involves a specification of the behavior expected from the student on completion of the course,but also a statement as to the level of achievement that he should reach. It would not, for instance, be sufficient to define the objectives of a course in typing as “ the ability to use a typewriter ”. It would be necessary to specify the speed and accuracy with which given material should be typed on completion of the course in order to pass. In this way, the competence of the typist can be assessed, with reference to measurable performance.
At the end of Mager is book there is a test to assess the reader is ability to identify observable behaviour and to recognize a criterion of acceptable performance. Fourteen statements of course objectives are given, and for each one the reader has to decide whether either or both the requirements are given.One could therefore use this test for a course on the principles of programmed learning. One objective of such a course could be stated as “ The student should be able to complete Mager is test and to get at least 80 per cent of his answers correct .”
While the aims and objectives of specific courses may be relatively easy to state and evaluate, the more general aims of certain educational procedures do not so readily lend themselves to definition. However , as general claims are frequently made about particular forms of education, often implying “transfer” to aboard range of activities, it is essential that the criterion behaviour be specificed in order to test whether the claims are substantiated.
The onus is now on the teacher to demonstrate just what a student does gain from attending his course. He will be in a much better positon to do this if his aims and objectives are clearly defind and open to evaluation.