
Learning Outcomes = Your Litmus Test 🧪
June 07, 2025 05:37 PM
· 2 hours ago
Learning Outcomes = Your Litmus Test 🧪
When creating a course, it's tempting to include everything you know. After all, your goal is to provide as much value as possible, right? But here's a hard truth that even seasoned course creators sometimes overlook: more content doesn’t always mean more impact. In fact, too much information can overwhelm learners and dilute the transformational power of your program.
That’s where learning outcomes become your secret weapon—or as I like to call them, your litmus test. 🧪
What Are Learning Outcomes?
Learning outcomes are clear, measurable statements that describe what a learner will know, do, or feel by the end of a course or module. They help you define the finish line for your learners—and equally important, they guide you in deciding what belongs in the course and what doesn’t.
Think of them as your content filter. If a lesson, tool, story, or resource doesn’t directly support a learning outcome, it’s a distraction—even if it’s valuable in another context.
A Real-World Example
I once worked with a dentist developing a course on TMJ treatment. Her initial outline was packed with scientific research and deep anatomical explanations. It was impressive—but her audience wasn’t dental specialists. It was general practitioners and allied health professionals who needed practical, actionable steps to help their patients.
By revisiting her learning outcomes and using them as our compass, we stripped away the excess and focused on real-world application. The result? A tighter, more engaging course that spoke directly to her learners’ needs.
How to Use Learning Outcomes as a Filter
Whenever you're unsure about including a piece of content, ask yourself:
- Does this directly support one of my learning outcomes?
- Will this help my learners achieve the promised transformation?
If the answer is no, leave it out (or save it for a bonus resource).
Final Thought 💡
Learning outcomes aren’t just academic jargon—they’re your course’s GPS. They keep you focused, intentional, and aligned with the true purpose of your program: to create real change for your learners.
What’s one learning outcome you’ve defined for your course? Share it in the comments—I’d love to brainstorm with you!