Unlike learning a concept or a principle, procedures are strictly defined so that each step is clear and unambiguous to the learner. Procedures can be simple, whereby the learner follows one set of steps in a sequential fashion. However, procedures can also be complex, with many decision points that the learner must make. Regardless of the complexity of the procedure, a procedural analysis breaks down the mental and/or physical steps that the learner must go through so that the task can be successfully achieved. The steps that make up a task are arranged linearly and sequentially, illustrating where the learner begins and ends. Often, the steps throughout the task, from start to finish, as well as any decisions that the learner must make are arranged in a flowchart, but they can also be done in an outline form.
Examples of learning outcomes that are procedural in nature are:
Learning goals that are procedures are the easiest goals upon which to conduct an instructional analysis. Generally, the application of procedures involves these steps:
(From Smith & Ragan, 1999)
Start/End: This symbol is used as the beginning symbol pointing to the first task and as a symbol indicating that no more tasks are to be performed. A flowchart has only one starting point; therefore there is only one START symbol. However, there can be more than one END point.
Input/Output: A parallelogram represents either an input task or an output task. An example of an input task is keying the account number of a savings account in a bank. An example of an output task is printing a report or displaying the results of a computation. Output at the end of a chain creates the input for the next step.
Process: A process is a simple procedure, an operation, or an instruction. Processes do not include tasks requiring a decision. A process is represented by a rectangle. Calculating simple interest, typing a report, or taking a test are examples of processes.
Decision: Decision symbols are used when two alternative sequences are possible depending upon the outcome of the decision. Usually, decisions are posed as questions requiring a yes or no answer. However, any two-way alternative may be posed.
(Seels & Glasgow, 1990)
Absolutely! Programs like Inspiration and Microsoft's Visio make it easy to create quick, customized flowcharts. And if you just want to try them out, many of them offer 30-day trial demos for you to download.
Can I see an example of a procedural task analysis using a flowchart?
Click here to download the image above.
Example:
Procedural task analysis in an outline.
Objective: The learner will be able to give a large dog a bath in a bathroom tub.
Definition of Learning: The learner will be able to perform the step-by-step process of giving a large dog a bath.
A. Get supplies:
B. Arrange the bathing area:
A. Lead dog to bath:
B. Secure the dog in the bathing area:
A. Wet the dog:
B. Shampoo the dog:
C. Rinse the dog:
A. Reach for the towels and pull them closer to you.
B. Lift/command the dog out of the tub.
C. Towel-dry the dog:
D. When all excess water is off the dog and it is essentially damp, put a leash and collar on the dog.
E. Take the dog to an area where you would like it to continue drying.
F. Give the dog a treat.