At its core, backward design flips the traditional course planning process. Instead of starting with content delivery, we begin with the end goal—what we want students to understand and achieve. Here’s how it works:

1. Identify desired results.
   1. Define clear learning outcomes and essential understandings.
   2. Ask: what should students know, understand, and be able to do by the end of the course?
2. Determine evidence of attainment.
   1. Plan assessments that measure student understanding.
   2. Consider performance tasks, projects, quizzes, and other forms of assessment.
3. Design learning experiences.
   1. Create activities, resources, and instruction that support the desired outcomes.
   2. Align content, activities, and assessments to ensure coherence.

Why use backward design

There are several reasons to use backward design:

• Intentionality. Backward design forces us to think purposefully. We focus on what truly matters—student learning.
• Alignment. Everything in the course aligns with the desired outcomes. No more “content for content’s sake.”
• Student centered. By emphasizing understanding, we engage students deeply and foster meaningful learning experiences.
   

Impactful Research

Wiggins and McTighe’s book, Understanding by Design, is a must-read. It emphasizes the power of starting with the end in mind and has influenced educators worldwide.

Resources for Implementation

• "Understanding by Design from the Center for Teaching at Vanderbilt University
• "Backward Design Process as a Curriculum Development Model" in Curriculum Essentials: A Journey