Which of the following is the highest level in hierarchical theory of learning given by Gagne ?

Question

Accepted Answer

Problem solving learning is the highest level in Gagne's hierarchy of learning because it requires the learner to utilize all previously acquired lower-level skills (like multiple discrimination, concept learning, and rule/principle learning) to identify and apply the correct rules and concepts to solve a novel problem. It involves creating new solutions and going beyond simply applying learned rules.

Here's why the other options are incorrect in the context of Gagne's hierarchy, and why problem-solving is the highest:

*   **Principle learning:** Principle learning (or rule learning) involves understanding and applying relationships between concepts. While important, it's a step below problem-solving because it focuses on applying established rules, not creating new solutions. Problem-solving *uses* principles, but also requires more.

*   **Concept learning:** Concept learning involves categorizing objects or events into classes. This is a necessary building block for higher-level learning, but it's not the highest level. Problem-solving requires understanding and applying multiple concepts.

*   **Multiple discrimination learning:** Multiple discrimination involves distinguishing between different stimuli. This is a foundational skill, but it's far below problem-solving in complexity. Problem-solving requires discriminating between relevant and irrelevant information, but also much more.

Therefore, problem-solving learning, requiring the integration and application of all lower-level skills to novel situations, is correctly identified as the highest level in Gagne's hierarchy.