What is the importance of action verbs?
Since the learner’s performance should be observable and measurable, the verb chosen for each outcome statement should be an action verb which results in overt behavior that can be observed and measured. Sample action verbs are: compile, create, plan, revise, analyze, design, select, utilize, apply, demonstrate, prepare, use, compute, discuss, explain, predict, assess, compare, rate, critique Certain verbs are unclear and subject to different interpretations in terms of what action they are specifying. Such verbs call for covert behavior which cannot be observed or measured. These types of verbs should be avoided: know, become aware of, appreciate, learn, understand, become familiar with [1] Dubuque, Iowa: Kendall1Phillips, Louis. The Continuing Education Guide: the CEU and Other Professional Development Criteria. /Hunt Publishing Co., 1994.
