Methods for Collecting and Analyzing Task Analysis Data

摘要

Task analysis, a critical front-end activity in the Instructional System Development methodology, is the process of partitioning job tasks into their component subtasks and identifying the skills and knowledges required to support task performance. This study was initiated in response to a Request for Personnel Reasearch generated by the Air Training Command, which noted that 'a wide range of nonstandardized task analysis procedures are in use throughout the training community.' Implementation of a standardized procedure for identifying essential subtasks and supporting skills and knowledges was expected to hold considerable potential for increasing training efficiency and reducing training costs. A simplified task analysis procedure and documentation system was specified, and a task analysis handbook was prepared. Handbook procedures were field tested at six Air Force installations. Results indicated that the handbook procedures met the design criteria of simplicity, validity, reliability, and time-efficiency/cost-effectiveness. The feasibility and utility of implementing a computer-based task analysis data bank was assessed, and a preliminary data bank design was then developed. Additionally, two technology transfer seminars were conducted to assist Air Force personnel in applying handbook task analysis procedures. (Author)