The document discusses aim statements for improvement projects. It explains that an aim statement defines the scope and goal of an improvement effort by answering three questions: what are we trying to accomplish, what changes can we make to achieve improvement, and how will we know a change resulted in improvement. A good aim statement is measurable, specific, numerical, sets a timeframe, and identifies the target population or system. Examples of aim statements that meet these criteria are provided. The document concludes by having the reader write their own aim statement.

1. The Model for Improvement, Part I:
Aim Statements
PC1: Improvement Science Basics
Anna Kawar

2. Our Road Map for Learning
Seeing the
System
Understanding
the Problem
Establishing
an Aim
Effect
Cause Cause
Cause Cause

3. Aim Statements
What is the purpose of an AIM statement?
! “True north” for an improvement effort
! Scopes the effort: defines the system that you will improve
What
are
we
trying
to
accomplish?
What
change(s)
can
we
make
that
will
result
in
improvement?
How
will
we
know
that
a
change
is
an
improvement?
AIM
statement
The Three Improvement Questions

4. Good AIM Statements…
…Answer the question:
WHAT ARE WETRYINGTO ACCOMPLISH?
! How much? (measureable, specific, numerical goals)
! By when? (time frame)
! For what/whom? (target population or setting or system/process)
! Specific yet representative of overarching goal (compelling)
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5. Aim Statement Examples
Get my students to be more self-reflective.
Increase the number of beginning algebra students
that learn from their quizzes.
Increase from 30% to 80% the percentage of my
beginning algebra students who correct their
errors on quizzes by the end of March.
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By when?
For
whom?
How much?
What?

6. Your Turn
! Write an aim statement
! Scoping:
– Think about the WILL of the people involved
– Think about your ability to generate actionable IDEAS
(expertise)
– Think about your ability to EXECUTE (resources, influence)
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