Embedded Files
Learning objectives are goals you set for personal development, with a focus on the learning that characterizes internships, cooperative education and work experience programs. Learning objectives simply refer to what you hope to gain as a result of participating in your internship.
Why should I develop learning objectives for NPBI?
Learning objectives help to make your internship more intentional.
Learning objectives help you to monitor your progress.
Learning objectives help you stay focused. With a clear goal in mind, you will be able to remind yourself of what you want to achieve and identify an action plan to help achieve your objectives.
SMART Learning Objectives
SMART Learning Objectives
SMART goals are based on an acronym that describes an observable behaviour or action and allows people to gauge their own success. Use an action verb to begin writing the learning objective.
Click to learn more
Click to learn more
SMART goals are based on an acronym that describes an observable behaviour or action and allows people to gauge their own success. Use an action verb to begin writing the learning objective.
S — specific (significant, stretching)
M — measurable (meaningful, motivational)
A — action-oriented (attainable, agreed upon, achievable, acceptable)
R — realistic (relevant, reasonable, rewarding, results-oriented)
T — time-bound (timely, tangible)
Considerations for your objectives
Considerations for your objectives
When developing your objectives, consider the following:
The organization’s and board’s mission and goals.
Possible obstacles to achieving your goals.
How do your objectives relate to your potential board project?
Instructions:
Instructions:
Consider what goals you want to achieve during your internship. Discuss these goals with your mentor. Examples:
Over the course of the internship, I want to work on my public speaking skills.
Over the course of the internship, I want to learn about how to effectively run meetings. I want to be able to effectively facilitate meetings.
For each goal, consider the SMART model. Identify the specific, measurable, achievable, relevant and timely components of the goal. These elements help you break down the goal to make it more manageable.
Communication Agreement
Communication Agreement
Establishing communication strategies early on is key to a sucessful mentor and intern relationship!
Establishing communication strategies early on is key to a sucessful mentor and intern relationship!
Choose a communication mode that works best for BOTH the intern and mentor. E.g. Monthly or semi-monthly check-ins by phone or email or short coffee meetings before or after board meetings and workshops to prepare and debrief)
In September/October:
Discuss your goals and expectations for the internship.
If any contact information changes or any circumstances affecting ability to carry out your role in the relationship, please inform both your partner (mentor or intern) and the program coordinators immediately.
Be accessible and be aware that you each have many demands on your time.
Be honest, open, and direct in all communication.
Remember that good communication also includes active listening.
*Mentors: If available, you may want to offer the intern a virtual tour of your organization or an on-line volunteer orientation. The intern may be able to get a greater sense of the day-to-day work of the organization and how board decisions influence operations.
*Interns: You may want to keep a journal of your learnings/experiences throughout the internship. There will be a mid-point reflection in January.
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