Our Unit 871 Instructor, Amanda, writes on the positive impact of setting SMART goals at the beginning of a new cohort.
At Lana Learn’s English Language Training Program, we begin each cohort by introducing students to the curriculum, scheduling, and calendar. We also explain the primary goal of our program: for students to achieve a minimum score of 60 on the ALCPT after six months, making them eligible for follow-on training in the United States.
To support this, we introduce the SMART goals method. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. This framework helps students set clear, actionable objectives. Research consistently shows that SMART goals enhance motivation and performance across educational and professional settings.
Performance-Based Goals
Our program’s primary SMART goal is performance-based: reaching a score of 60 on the ALCPT. We use bi-weekly book quizzes and midterm tests as formal benchmarks. These assessments help us project final outcomes and track progress.
Teachers encourage students to set weekly and monthly SMART goals. These smaller milestones promote self-evaluation and reduce the need for major corrections. This approach allows for early and frequent interventions, which supports continuous improvement.
Contingency Plans
What happens if a student’s performance falls short? We guide students in creating contingency plans early in the program. They commit to extra practice in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. These contingency plans eliminate the frustration of not meeting targets, which can often lead to a decrease in motivation and effort.
Broadening Success Definition
While outcome-based SMART goals are useful, they don’t always capture the full value of learning. We encourage students to focus on the process of learning and its broader benefits. English proficiency can open doors to professional growth, financial security, and meaningful relationships.
By expanding our definition of success, we help students connect language learning to life goals. This shift increases motivation and improves the likelihood of achieving performance targets.
Fun Goals
We also introduce “fun goals” to keep students engaged. These goals might include watching a favorite series in English, communicating with ease in English while on vacations abroad, or making friends from other countries. Fun goals enhance motivation and contribute to success both in and out of the classroom.