Backward Design

What & Why

Backward Design is a process that ensures all curricular components align with the learning outcomes/objectives. The process is as follows:

How To

In their book, Understanding by Design, Wiggins and McTighe (2005) offer a different course design framework called “Backward Design.” Backward Design has three stages.

Stage 1 focuses on identifying the learning outcomes at the course level and the learning objectives for each module, unit, or topic.
Stage 2 involves determining which assessment methods will measure student performance and align with the learning objectives from Stage 1. Providing multiple ways to assess learning helps all students succeed.
Stage 3 involves creating or curating activities and learning materials that align with course outcomes and module objectives to help students succeed. Providing multiple ways to learn the material helps all students succeed.

NOTE: Assessments and learning activities are interrelated and often overlapping concepts. Generally, the key difference is grading. If the assessment is ungraded, it is a learning activity; if it is graded (even if it is low-stakes), it is an assessment.

Example

Outcome: explain the events that caused WW1.
Activity: outline the historical events that led to the tensions that sparked WW1 (if this were graded, it could be considered a formative assessment).
Assessment: an oral exam question asks students to discuss the role of governments and politics that gave rise to WW1.

Adapted from Denise C. & Jane C. (2018). Learning Outcomes: Alignment. Memorial University of Newfoundland.

The three crucial concepts in Evaluation (Learning Outcomes, Assessments, and Activities) form an equilateral triangle whereby all points are important and each one influences the other.

Additional Resources

Understanding by Design, Chapter 1. Wiggins & McTighe (2005)
Understanding by Design Framework, McTighe and Wiggins planning process, and structure to guide curriculum, assessment, and instruction. (PDF)
Backward Design: Designing Courses for an Uncertain Fall - recording of Neil Witikko's presentation at the 2020 Summer Eue Institute.