Hierarchical Analysis of Learning Objectives in Economics

Abstract

Learning hierarchies are arrangements of intellectual skill objectives in a pattern of prerequisite relationships among cognitive processes. A simple learning hierarchy consisting of five objectives was hypothesized, developed and tested for instruction related to the concepts of supply and demand. The subjects in the study included 151 University of Toledo students in two economics classes. A method, “ordering theory,” for validating prerequisite relationships among 11 possible objective pairs rather than just those hypothesized to have such a relationship was used in the two classes. The two analyses yielded identical hierarchical relationships which were somewhat different than the hypothesized relationships. Both hierarchical analysis and ordering theory merit consideration and further study in economic and social education. Learning hierarchies and ordering theory analyses can aid instructors in: (1) pinpointing learner strengths and weaknesses, (2) focusing on the development of intellectual skills and (3) increasing the effectivness of social education.