Backward Design means to begin with the end in mind. Following formulation of the course-level and module-level objectives, the course assessments are designed, and then the course content. If you know what you want students to take away from your course, you can better design the course components to help students achieve the outcomes. You are giving your students a compass and a map to help them reach their end goal.
The main principles of Backward Design can be captured in three central ideas: Identify Desired Results, Determine Acceptable Evidence, and Plan Learning Experiences and Instruction (Wiggins & McTighe, 2005).
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