Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

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Continuing education aimed at the cognitive domain of learning is ordered according to complexity, with the least complex being:

  1. knowledge

  2. application

  3. synthesis

  4. evaluation

The correct answer is: knowledge

The least complex level in the cognitive domain of learning is knowledge. This level involves the simple recall of facts, concepts, and information. It is fundamental to all other cognitive processes because, without this foundational knowledge, a learner cannot accurately apply, analyze, synthesize, or evaluate information. When considering the other levels such as application, synthesis, and evaluation, these represent progressively more complex cognitive tasks. Application requires a learner to use knowledge in new situations or contexts, while synthesis involves combining different ideas or information to create something new. Evaluation is the highest level, requiring critical thinking and judgment about the value or quality of information or methods. Thus, starting with the recall of basic knowledge sets the stage for more advanced cognitive skills.