What are SMART Goals?

SMART goals are an important part of your STEAM lab experience. When you write a SMART goal, you're setting yourself up for success with your engagement. Each of the parts of a SMART goal play an important part.

SPECIFIC

When writing a goal you need to make sure that you include as much information as possible. You'll want to say what tool you are using, such as the LEGOs, SketchUp or Solar Car Kit. You also will want to include what you are going to do with that kit. Finally, make sure to include how you plan on sharing your final product. Will it be in the form of pictures, a video, or a classroom demonstration?

MEASURABLE

Your SMART goal needs to include some way to measure your success. If you don't include a measurable component, then how will you know that you've reached your goal? This could be in the form of a distance that a car will travel or a set number of projects you'll complete with the Snap Circuits.

ATTAINABLE

Is it possible to complete your goal in ten class periods? This is important to keep in mind as you try out new technologies with steep learning curves.

RELEVANT

Is the project you are doing relevant to the STEAM lab? Usually this is the easiest part of the SMART goal, but it's always helpful to think to yourself, "Does my goal have to do with STEAM?"

TIME-BOUND / TIMELY

Each of the engagements in STEM take place over a ten day period. This includes the exploration phase and creating a presentation. You'll want to keep that in mind as you create your SMART goal. Typically your SMART goals include the phrase, "Over the next ten class periods... will use ... to make a ... that does ... "