How to Write SMART Goals for Interventions

Setting SMART goals can turn intervention into action steps.

Smart goals are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Timely. Setting SMART goals for intervention is a nice way to help students take responsibility for their own academic improvement. It also helps monitor their progress toward important goals and objectives. When learners can move with purpose and intent toward established end points, they've taken ownership of their learning effort.

Instructions

1. Write down three to five specific achievements that are needed in order to be successful. For example, if the struggle is with grammar and usage in writing, the achievement would be becoming a more proficient writer. If steps in algebra are needed, the achievement would be to become proficient in algebra.

2. Write down one to two action steps needed to become successful in the areas identified. For example, to become a more proficient writer, one action step to take might be to receive tutoring once a week, or to use grammar improvement tutorial software twice a week. This makes the goals relevant.

3. Establish a timeline for completion of each action step. For example, if using software to learn and practice with algebra, completion might be to complete modules one through 12 in two weeks, or to complete two modules per week and finish the unit in one month. This will establish a baseline with which to measure progress.

4. Make a progress chart that names each action step next to the goal. For example, Improvement on Algebra would have modules one through 12 listed next to it. Check off and add to the progress as the established steps toward their completion are executed. For example, check off the box for algebra with each module completion.

5. Place the goals and progress chart where they can be viewed daily.

References

• Top Achievement
• Career Intelligence