Learning objectives should break down the task and focus on specific cognitive processes.
Many activities that faculty believe require a single skill (for example, writing or problem solving) actually involve a synthesis of many component skills.
To master these complex skills, students must practice and gain proficiency in the discrete component skills.
•writing may involve identifying an argument, enlisting appropriate evidence, organizing paragraphs, etc.
•problem solving may require defining the parameters of the problem, choosing appropriate formulas, etc.
Breaking down the skills will allow us to select appropriate assessments and instructional strategies so that students practice all component skills.