Proximal Vs Distal Goals In eLearning: 4 Tips To Facilitate Goal-Setting
At the heart of every successful eLearning experience is a goal. Without it, our online learners would wander aimlessly through the subject matter, wondering where it was leading them and how it would improve their lives. Learning goals give us direction, a focal point where we can channel all of our time, energy, and effort. They propel us forward and help us overcome obstacles. As such, they are essential components of eLearning course design.
But what are the key differences of proximal vs distal goals, and how can we use each to engage and inspire our online learners?
3 Benefits Of Proximal Goals
Proximal goals are short-term goals that can be achieved sooner rather than later. They also tend to be more detailed and specific. An example of a proximal goal would be passing an exam at the end of the module.
Here are just 3 of the benefits associated with short-term goals:
1. Increase online learner motivation
Online learners are more motivated when instant gratification is involved. In other words, they get excited when they know that rewards are just around the corner instead of weeks or months away.
Additionally, there isn’t a great deal of time to doubt or second-guess when you’re achieving a short-term goal, which means that your online learners can maintain a steady source of motivation throughout the entire eLearning experience.
2. Allow for ongoing feedback
This type of goal is short-term, meaning that online learners will get the opportunity to receive feedback more frequently. Once they complete a proximal goal, they can immediately modify performance behaviors and correct habits, which allows them to boost productivity and efficiency right away. They can then use this to their advantage when pursuing their next proximal goal.
3. Make long-term goals more manageable
Proximal goals also make distal goals more manageable by breaking them down into smaller steps. Learners can overcome each proximal hurdle one at a time, rather than having trying to pole vault over an insurmountable wall. Thanks to increased motivation, they are also more likely to achieve long-term goals that are more challenging.
3 Benefits Of Distal Goals
Distal goals are long-term goals that are accomplished over an extended period of time. They typically have a number of steps involved. Examples of distal goal are earning a degree in a specific field or getting a job promotion.
Here are 3 of the benefits linked to long-term goals:
1. Boost self-confidence
Online learners who achieve a distal goal have overcome challenges and persevered in order to achieve success. They’ve taken the time and made the effort, thereby proving to themselves that they have what it takes. As a result, they tend to be more self-confident and self-assured. When the next distal goal appears, they will usually take it on with less hesitation.
2. Make online learners more resilient
Achieving a long-term goal typically involves a fair share of mistakes, obstacles, and problems that must be overcome. Online learners who see this effort through to fruition are more resilient as a result. They have shown that they possess the mental focus and drive that is required of them.
3. Help online learners to identify areas for improvement
Distal goals also allow online learners to identify their strengths and weaknesses. Every challenge they face along the way tests their skills and talents, which enables them to determine areas that need to be improved. In many respects, it reveals a great deal about who they are and what they can achieve if they put their mind to it.
4 Tips To Facilitate Goal-Setting In eLearning
1. Pair distal with proximal for best results
It’s always wise to divide long-term goals into a series of proximal goals, particularly when the distal goal is more complex or involved. Encourage online learners to analyze every component of their long-term goal and then break it down into steps that are easier to complete. Also, be sure to stress the importance of acknowledging every milestone and treating it like a small victory.
2. Allow online learners to set their own goal paths
It’s crucial to allow your online learners to set their personal goals and determine how they will achieve them. This gives them a sense of control, which increases their intrinsic motivation. If you do have pre-set goals, then at least give them the ability to choose which eLearning activities they will use to reach the desired outcome.
3. Be as specific as possible
Encourage online learners to clearly outline every task, step, or process involved in their goal. For example, some long-term goals may require that an online learner develops specific skills or complete certain eLearning courses. Ask them to be as specific as possible so that they don’t have to add any steps while they are pursuing the goal.
4. Always create a goal achievement timeline
Every goal should have a timeline attached. Even proximal goals must have an estimated completion date, or else online learners won’t feel as though they are accountable. Timelines can also help them stay on track and focused, which leads to better results.
Online learners may even benefit from an online project management tool that features a calendar and assignment tracker, especially if they are working with a group to achieve the distal goal.
Proximal and distal goals make eLearning experiences worthwhile. So, take the time to create effective short and long-term goals for your next eLearning course, and help your online learners to build their own goal-setting skills. The ability to develop realistic and meaningful learning goals can offer them a lifetime of success.
Performance goals are yet another type of goal that you should consider. Read the article Why and How To Use Performance Goals in eLearning to discover the benefits of developing goals that focus on skills and tasks, such as tips to use them in your eLearning course design.
