Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

In educational strategies, what is considered the highest level of cognitive learning?

1. Knowledge

2. Synthesis

3. Evaluation

4. Application

The correct answer is: Evaluation

The highest level of cognitive learning is characterized by the ability to make judgments about the value of material and methods for a given purpose, which is represented by evaluation. At this stage, learners are not just recalling facts or applying knowledge; they are also analyzing information, comparing different elements, and forming conclusions based on criteria. This requires critical thinking skills and the ability to substantively engage with complex concepts, making informed decisions and assessments based on evidence. In contrast, knowledge involves merely recalling facts and basic concepts, which is the foundation level of learning. Synthesis refers to the ability to combine elements to form a coherent whole, which is also a complex skill but does not reach the evaluative level. Application involves using learned material in new situations, but it doesn’t demand the analytical and judgment-based skills required for evaluation. Evaluation thus represents the pinnacle of cognitive learning, where learners can critique, appraise, or validate information and methodologies, demonstrating a higher order of understanding and integration of knowledge.