SMART objectives
SMART objectives
SMART is an acronym to help you think about writing objectives as part of an action plan:
- Specific
- Measureable
- Achievable
- Relevant
- Time bound
The objectives:
A clear statement of what you intend to do, so that you can evaluate the extent to which you have completed it afterwards.
The objective explains how you will decide whether you have successfully achieved it.
You have considered whether you have the time and resources to complete each of your objectives. When considering how you might meet an identified learning need, list as many methods as you can think of and work through the advantages and disadvantages of each one. This will help you choose the right ones.
Your objectives relate to your role, responsibilities or required competencies, so that you can apply any knowledge and skills gained to your practice.
You have stated a deadline for completion for each of the objectives in your action plan, to ensure you complete them in a timely way and your progress stays on track. Consider the urgency and importance of each objective when prioritising which you will attempt to complete first.
Asking for feedback
Think about the questions you could ask to improve the usefulness of feedback you receive. These could include:
- What did I do well?
- What specific examples can you describe?
- What did you observe about me in that situation?
- What could I do differently next time?
- What will be the benefits of these changes?