Breaking down complex or multiple step behaviors or skills into small, easier to teach subtasks.

Breaking down complex or multiple step behaviors or skills into small, easier to teach subtasks.

• A. Learning Trial
• B. Task analysis
• C. Positive reinforcement
• D. Compensatory

Answer: (B)

Task analysis is the process of breaking down complex skills into smaller, teachable steps. This approach makes multi-step tasks manageable by teaching and practicing each component one at a time, then linking them together until the whole skill is performed smoothly. It reduces cognitive load, clarifies the exact sequence, and allows precise prompting and gradual fading as mastery grows. For example, teaching someone to wash hands can be broken into turning on the faucet, wetting hands, applying soap, scrubbing, rinsing, drying, and turning off the faucet, practiced in order until the full routine is independent. This method also helps pinpoint where a learner struggles so instruction can be adjusted accordingly, supporting progress toward independent, generalized use of the skill.

Task analysis is the process of breaking down complex skills into smaller, teachable steps. This approach makes multi-step tasks manageable by teaching and practicing each component one at a time, then linking them together until the whole skill is performed smoothly. It reduces cognitive load, clarifies the exact sequence, and allows precise prompting and gradual fading as mastery grows. For example, teaching someone to wash hands can be broken into turning on the faucet, wetting hands, applying soap, scrubbing, rinsing, drying, and turning off the faucet, practiced in order until the full routine is independent. This method also helps pinpoint where a learner struggles so instruction can be adjusted accordingly, supporting progress toward independent, generalized use of the skill.