In Gagne’s hierarchy of learning, which one of the following will not be included in rule learning?

Correct option is D

Robert Gagne's "Conditions of Learning" describes a hierarchical model where each level of learning builds upon the previous one. In this hierarchy, Problem-solving Learning is not included in Rule Learning because it is a higher-order level that requires Rule Learning as a prerequisite.
The correct answer is (d) Problem-solving Learning.
Information Booster
Gagne identified eight distinct levels of learning, arranged from simple to complex. To master any level, a learner must have already mastered the levels below it.
1. Signal Learning: The simplest form (Classical Conditioning).
2. Stimulus-Response (S-R) Learning: Developing specific responses to specific stimuli (Operant Conditioning).
3. Chaining: Connecting a series of S-R links (e.g., motor skills).
4. Verbal Association: Connecting words to objects or ideas.
5. Discrimination Learning: Distinguishing between similar stimuli.
6. Concept Learning: Identifying a class of objects based on shared characteristics.
7. Rule Learning (Principle Learning): The ability to relate two or more concepts (e.g., "Water boils at 100°C").
8. Problem-solving Learning: The highest level, where the learner combines multiple rules to find a solution to a new situation.
Additional Knowledge
To understand why Problem-solving is the correct answer to "what is not included," we look at the direction of the hierarchy:
· Prerequisites for Rule Learning: To learn a "Rule" (Level 7), a student must already understand the Concepts (Level 6) that make up that rule. To understand those concepts, they must be able to Discriminate (Level 5) between items, which in turn relies on basic S-R Learning (Level 2). Thus, A, B, and C are all "included" in the foundation of Rule Learning.
· The Next Step: Problem-solving (Level 8) is what happens after a learner has mastered various rules. You cannot solve a complex physics problem without first knowing the rules (formulas). Therefore, Problem-solving is the "output" or the next stage, not a component part of Rule Learning itself.
· Cumulative Learning: Gagne’s theory is known as "Cumulative Learning Theory" because it posits that intellectual skills are built step-by-step.