A well-written learning objective:

• Is stated in terms of the learner (not the presenter)
• Uses one measurable action verb (define, describe, identify, apply, demonstrate, compare, etc.)
• Describes a specific, observable outcome
• Refers to knowledge, skills, or clinical/application understanding gained

Each objective should complete this sentence:
At the end of this presentation, participants will be able to: ________

Objectives need not describe your entire presentation. They may refer to specific sections. For example, if one part of your workshop explains Jung’s concept of the Collective Unconscious, an appropriate objective would be:

Participants will be able to define Jung’s concept of the Collective Unconscious.

You do not need to teach the entire body of Jungian psychology. It is sufficient to clearly define and explain this concept within one part.

Likewise, you can cover more material than is referred to in your objectives. Your objectives can be very specific and covered in a portion of your presentation, but they do not need to define the totality of what you present. 

Avoid vague verbs such as:
understand, learn, appreciate, become familiar with etc.

Use measurable verbs such as:
define, describe, identify, explain, demonstrate, apply, compare, list, recognize, practice

These verbs allow accrediting bodies to confirm that meaningful learning has occurred.

Here are examples appropriate for imagery-focused workshops:

Knowledge-based:


• Define the role of imagery in emotional regulation.


• Describe the neurophysiological mechanisms involved in imagery.


• Identify three clinical applications of guided imagery.



Skill-based:


• Demonstrate a grounding imagery exercise.


• Apply imagery techniques to support emotional regulation.


• Practice guiding a sensory imagery exercise.



Conceptual / clinical integration objectives:

• Explain how imagery supports trauma-informed practice.


• Compare imagery-based and cognitive-based interventions.


• Identify appropriate clinical uses of imagery.

At the end of the presentation, participants will be able to:

1. Define the concept of grounding as it applies to imagery-based practice.

2. Describe two imagery techniques used to support emotional regulation.

3. Demonstrate a brief guided imagery exercise to promote client grounding.