When should the goals of a lesson be set according to effective teaching practices?

Setting the goals of a lesson before instructing and observing the student is aligned with effective teaching practices because it establishes a clear direction for both the instructor and the student. By defining specific, measurable objectives ahead of time, the teacher can tailor the lesson content, activities, and assessments to meet those goals. This proactive approach ensures that the instruction is focused and relevant, allowing educators to maximize the learning experience and keep students engaged.

Having goals set in advance also helps in monitoring student progress. The instructor can assess whether students are meeting the desired outcomes throughout the lesson, making it easier to adjust teaching methods as necessary to support student understanding. Additionally, when students are aware of the goals upfront, they can be more self-directed in their learning, as they understand what they are working towards.

In contrast, setting goals during the lesson, after observing performance, or at the end of the instructional period may lead to a lack of focus and unstructured learning. Without clear objectives established at the start, both the teacher and students might find it difficult to gauge progress and success in achieving the intended educational outcomes.