Learning objectives are written to establish what for competency?

The correct choice, which is criteria, is essential because learning objectives provide clear benchmarks or standards that define what a learner should know or be able to do at the end of a learning experience. Establishing criteria is crucial for measuring the effectiveness of the instruction, guiding the teaching process, and evaluating student performance. These objectives help instructors develop assessments that align with the intended outcomes, ensuring that the learning environment is structured and focused on achieving those specific goals.

In contrast, the other options focus on different aspects of the educational process. While modules refer to the segments of the course content, learning style pertains to the preferred methods through which individuals learn, and learner characteristics involve the traits and background of the students. None of these directly address the role of learning objectives in defining criteria for competency. Thus, criteria stand out as the key element that governs the expectations and outcomes of the learning process.