To decide if an objective should be classified as a procedure, it is important that you consider several key factors. Does the objective meet the definition of a procedure? How does it compare with examples of other procedure objectives? What instructional strategy would be used to teach the objective, and does that strategy make sense? The answers to these questions, and more are provided by the topics below.
Definition of a Procedure Objective
A procedure objective can be defined as follows:
It is a set of sequential operations or steps
Which are always performed in essentially the same way and have the same outcome
Which needs to be demonstrated in only one way
The Difference Between Procedures and Rules
Procedures are sometimes confused with rules. The key differences between them are:
•Procedures solve a problem or perform a task that presents itself the same way each time; rules solve a problem that involves different input, and results in a different outcome each time.
•Procedures only require one demonstration; rules require a set of examples to show the rule applied with various input and output.
Examples of Procedure Objectives
Here are some examples of objectives classified as procedures:
•Given access to the required equipment and technical manual, calibrate a Simpson Multimeter to within 25 accuracy.
•In the flight simulator and under normal conditions, complete the pre-flight checklist.
•Given the Tootsie O'Neil cookbook and the necessary ingredients, prepare an asparagus cheese dip so that it has all the characteristics described in the cookbook.
•Without the aid or references, pack a parachute so that it opens properly every time.
•All of the examples above meet the criteria for a procedure. They solve a problem or perform a task the same way each time; and would be demonstrated in only one way.
Typical Action Verbs of Procedure Objectives
Below are typical action verbs commonly used with procedure objectives:
Assemble |
Cut |
Install |
Operate |
Start |
Build |
Drill |
Make |
Remove |
Trim |
Calibrate |
Finish |
Manipulate |
Replace |
Wipe |
Carve |
Fit |
Mend |
Reset |
Wrap |
Complete |
Fix |
Pack |
Set |
|
Connect |
Fold |
Position |
Sharpen |
|
Construct |
Insert |
Prepare |
Smooth |
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Instructional Benefits of Procedure Objectives
A great deal of what is accomplished in the work place every day is based on the execution of procedures. Procedures can be carefully documented and monitored to ensure safe and consistent performance of critical tasks. They take the guesswork out of how something should be done.
The Instructional Strategy for a Procedure Objective
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Introduction to an objective: A Brief statement that orients the student to what is coming It also serves as the "glue" that helps the lesson to flow from objective to objective. |
Objective: A precise definition of what the student will be capable of doing after the instruction has been completed. For a procedure objective, the student will be capable of operating, constructing, assembling, starting, etc. |
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Main idea for procedure objective: A list of steps and any other information that is essential in order to complete the objective. The main idea contains no elaboration. The practice and tests will be based on the main idea. |
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Explanation of a procedure: Explains the steps in the main idea so that they are easier to understand and perform. The explanation clarifies unfamiliar terms, points out common errors or frequent misunderstandings. It also adds context that helps to build meaning. |
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Demonstration of a procedure: Shows how the steps of the procedure are performed in a realistic situation. The demonstration translates the instructions given in the main idea into real world application. |
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Practice and feedback for a procedure: Provides an opportunity for the student to use the main idea in accordance with the conditions of the objective. Includes feedback that enables students to correct and improve their performance. |
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