Which of the following is the best way for the instructor to understand what skills need to be included and taught in a course?

Task analysis is the most effective method for an instructor to identify the specific skills that need to be included and taught in a course. This process involves breaking down a particular task into its fundamental components and steps. By conducting a thorough task analysis, the instructor can determine what skills are essential for learners to successfully complete the task at hand.

This systematic approach allows educators to focus on the foundational elements of the skills being taught, ensuring that content is relevant and directly tied to the practical realities students will face. Additionally, task analysis can reveal prerequisites for learning certain skills, highlight common obstacles, and guide the development of assessments to measure student proficiency.

In contrast, curriculum mapping focuses more on aligning course content with broader program goals and outcomes rather than the specific skills needed for individual tasks. Peer review is valuable for gaining feedback on instructional design but doesn't directly identify skills required for a course. Standardized testing examines learner knowledge and readiness but does not provide the same granular insight into the skills that need to be taught as task analysis does.