leertaak

Leertaak is a term used in Dutch education to describe a structured learning assignment that is designed to contribute to specific learning outcomes. It is part of curriculum design and emphasizes active engagement and the development of knowledge, skills, and attitudes. The word combines leer (to learn) and taak (task), reflecting its purpose to foster learning through guided activities and practice.

A leertaak usually contains clearly stated learning objectives, instructions, required resources, a sequence of activities, and criteria for assessment. It is typically accompanied by a deadline and, in many settings, a rubric or scoring guide that describes what constitutes satisfactory performance. The aim is to provide students with focused tasks that support applying concepts, solving problems, or reflecting on their learning, with feedback integrated to support improvement.

Context and usage: Leertaak is used across educational levels, including primary, secondary, and tertiary education, as well as in vocational and professional training. It can be conducted individually or in groups and may involve reading, experiments, case analyses, or reflective writing. In the Netherlands and Flanders, leertaak is commonly embedded in modules or courses as part of the learning process.

Relation to other terms: While leertaak is sometimes used interchangeably with opdracht, the latter is a broader term for assignments and may be used outside a learning-outcome framework. Huiswerk refers to homework done outside class. Leertaak tends to emphasize alignment with learning outcomes and ongoing assessment.

Evaluation: Performance in a leertaak is typically graded or marked, but it can also be used formatively to guide further learning through constructive feedback.