Task Analysis:Definition

Task analysis is the analysis or a breakdown of exactly how a task is accomplished, such as what sub-tasks are required. This information can then be used for many purposes, such as improving the design of tools or procedures that aid in performing the task. These tools can be either physical implements or software.

Job task analysis is the cornerstone of Competency Testing. Conducting an effective job analysis requires understanding what information is necessary for the project, how to best extract that information from the organization, and how to best analyze the data received in order to provide the clearest picture of the job under study. In test development, the job analysis study should result in the identification of the essential tasks and duties, knowledge, skills and abilities required to perform the job. For training design, frequency and consequence of error are two important factors to consider in identifying critical tasks or duties upon which to train. The specific criteria used should be based on the goal of the study.

Task analysis is a systematic breakdown of a task into its elements, specifically including a detailed task description of both manual and mental activities, task and element durations, task frequency, task allocation, task complexity, environmental conditions, necessary clothing and equipment, and any other unique factors involved in or required for one or more humans to perform a given task.

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