What does "backward design" in curriculum planning involve?

Backward design in curriculum planning is a method that emphasizes beginning with the end in mind. This approach involves identifying the desired outcomes for student learning first, which are the specific knowledge and skills that students should acquire by the end of a lesson or unit. Once these outcomes are clearly defined, educators can then plan the instruction and assessments that will lead to achieving those outcomes. This ensures that all teaching activities and assessments are aligned with the overarching goals for student learning.

Using this method helps educators to create a more structured and purposeful curriculum, as it focuses on what students ultimately need to learn and accomplish. By starting with outcomes, teachers can tailor their instruction to meet those goals, thereby fostering a more effective learning environment. The emphasis on aligning assessments with learning goals also helps ensure that students are evaluated based on their attainment of the desired outcomes, making the assessment process more meaningful and relevant.