The complexity hypothesis suggests that the hierarchical arrangement of learning tasks is related to the complexity of the task. Using a definition of complexity based on an analysis of the rules governing performance on a task, the present study lent support to the hypothesis. (Author/GDC)

Employed two strategies used to test prerequisite relationships among intellectual skills to examine the sequence of three types of subtraction tasks. A psychometric validation strategy yielded results similar to instructional validation strategy. Supports the use of the more efficient psychometric approach for validating large numbers of learning…