Outcomes-based teaching and learning (OBTL) is an approach to curriculum design that encourages us to explicitly map out what our students should know and be able to do at the end of a course or program of study, how they will demonstrate that learning, and which teaching and learning activities and materials will best support them to achieve those goals.
Identifying intended learning outcomes first simplifies program and course design and ensures instructional strategies stay focused on what the learners need to know and be able to do at the end of the learning experience.
OBTL & Backward Design
Our OBTL Part 1 video provides a definition of outcomes-based teaching and learning, describes the benefits of this approach to curriculum design, and lists steps to designing a course using OBTL.
OBTL Video Part 1
For an explanation on how to align assessments and teaching activities to course learning outcomes along with a number of examples from different disciplines, watch OBTL Part 2.
OBTL Video Part 2
Learn More
The OBTL Overview shows how OBTL differs from content-based planning and how you can align outcomes, assessments, and teaching and learning activities.
Here are answers to commonly asked questions about OBTL.
Outcomes-based teaching and learning (OBTL) is an approach that puts student learning at the centre of course design and delivery. It shifts the focus from what the instructor is doing to what the students are learning. Below we address some of the common questions about this approach.
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