Define "learning objective."

A learning objective is a specific statement that clearly articulates what learners should know or be able to do by the end of a given instructional period. This precise formulation provides a measurable outcome that guides both the instructor and the students, ensuring alignment between the instructional activities and desired results. By outlining explicit expectations, learning objectives direct the teaching process and help assess whether the intended knowledge or skills have been acquired. This specificity is essential for effective lesson planning and evaluation of student progress, as it lays a clear pathway for the learning journey.

The other options lack the precision and clarity that define a learning objective. A general idea of what will be taught does not provide actionable or measurable expectations. Instructions on how to teach a subject do not focus on learner outcomes and could be seen as a teaching strategy rather than an objective. A summary of course content may provide an overview but does not pinpoint specific skills or knowledge that should be demonstrated by the learner after instruction. Thus, the focus of a learning objective is on clear, measurable outcomes that students are expected to achieve.