Understanding by Design

Understanding by Design (UbD) is an educational framework based on backward design championed by Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe in their book "Understanding by Design". 

While conventional lesson plans and assessments are based on curriculum related to general and often ambiguous learning goals, the UbD process begins with defining specific learning goals (outcomes) and then creating assessments that provide evidence of students achieving those outcomes.  Only then does an instructor design the learning activities and tasks that define the learning pathway toward those goals. 

UbD enables educators to align their curriculum, instruction, and assessment to create meaningful student-centered learning experiences that lead to deep comprehension and long-term retention of knowledge and skills.