Understanding by Design (UbD) is a backward-design framework that starts from the desired results and works backward to plan learning experiences. This template was used to create the curriculum for an onboarding Financial Aid Advisor program, ensuring every activity and assessment ladders up to the target performance.
The 3 Stages of UbD
Stage 1 — Identify Desired Results
After completing onboarding, Financial Aid Advisors can use federal and internal resources to solve student case files, determine financial aid eligibility, understand the Financial Aid Office’s organizational impact, become financially fluent in federal funding, approach students with empathy and emotional intelligence, and take ownership of their workflow to maximize efficient production.
Stage 2 — Determine Acceptable Evidence
Performance tasks include assigning advisors a student workload, having them prioritize and generate reports, analyze eligibility, and email award offers. Evidence also includes quizzes on resources and situational advising, audited case files, peer evaluations, quality-assurance reviews of communications, and one-on-one reflective feedback between trainer and trainee.
Stage 3 — Plan Learning Experiences
The learning sequence moves from ice-breakers and Canvas-based knowledge modules to reflective Q&A sessions and hands-on practice awarding funds — each step connected to the WHERETO elements so the design stays intentional and engaging.