LNAT_SMART_Objectives

Understanding

SMART Objectives

Introduction

In this section of the course, you will have the chance to create a Personal Development Plan. The aim of the plan is to give you advice on how you can continue to develop the skills you have learnt on the course.

Your Personal Development Plan

The development plan is based around the SMART structure. SMART plans are commonly used in a professional context as a way of ensuring that employees keep their skills up to date and continue to take on new responsibilities which will enhance their career prospects.

Why SMART?

SMART Objectives

Specific – You should say exactly what it is you intend to do.

Achievable – Your aims should be realistic and achievable.

Measurable – What you do should be measurable in some way.

Relevant – You should choose aims that help you achieve your goals.

Time-bound – Lastly, you should specify by when your goal will be completed.

What does SMART mean?

SMART is an acronym for the kinds of aims that should be part of your plan.

• To practise my comprehension strategies, I will talk about things I have read when I have some free time.

NOT SMART

• I will practise speed reading daily by reading an opinion article quickly and then seeing if I can note down the main points and arguments.

• I will write one timed essay per week and endeavour to finish in 38 minutes or less.

• I will listen to or watch the news at least twice a week and try to spot whether I am being presented with facts or opinions.

• Once a week, I will ask a friend or family member to outline an argument. I will then try to play devil's advocate and come up with a counter-argument, even if it goes against my own position.

SMART

Go to the next unit called 'Your Personal Development Plan' to review and select two objectives you will work on.

What Next?

'Your personal plans and SMART objectives will help you continue to develop your skills and make an impact in your everyday life.'