Learning Tools For The On-line Student

By: Diana Squillace

Email: [email protected]

Backward Design

According to the text, Understanding by Design by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe (1998), Backwards Design is a method of first, targeting the lesson goals using the curriculum as "a means to an end", determining through student performance acceptable evidence of learning and understanding (tests, quizzes, informal checks for understanding, projects and tasks, observation and dialogue), and at last planning learning experiences and instructional activities that are clearly focused on intended learning results.  To clarify, the Backward Design Process includes three stages in this order; identify desired results (curriculum) , determine acceptable evidence (performance), and planning learning experiences and instruction (p. 8-13). 

When developing a lesson plan using Backward Design, it is important to first look at the "Big Picture of a Design Approach"  by developing a diagram that includes the three stages, cross-sectioned by design considerations, filters (design criteria) and what the final design accomplishes.    

Resources

What Is Backward Design

Stages Of Backward Design

Wiggins, G. and McThighe, J (1991). Understanding by Design. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Merrill Education/Prentice Hall, Inc.

Back to Top

Website designed by Diana Squillace.
For problems or questions regarding this web page email  Diana Squillace.
Last updated: April 04, 2003.