What are SMART Goals Anyway?

This is part one of a three-post series on SMART goals.

Differences can be recognized between SMART goals and other goal-setting models like the Goal Setting Theory by professor Edwin Locke. SMART goals focus upon problems as opportunities and engage students in their own learning. SMART goals center upon precision, responsibility toward lifelong learning, and understanding by design. With this in mind, we can begin to implement SMART goals in our classrooms and support students as they face challenges during the learning process.1

As educators, our students develop SMART goals as both necessary and valued actions in learning. For this reason, students are more likely to persevere in the face of challenge when they view struggle as a necessary and valued part of learning rather than a sign of personal failure.2