USING COMPUTERS TO DELIVER TRAINING: WHICH EMPLOYEES LEARN AND WHY?

TLDR

Computer‑delivered training offers learners greater control than instructor‑led training, and choices about practice level, time on task, and attention are expected to be key determinants of effectiveness. The study examined how learner choices affect outcomes in a computer‑based training course with 78 employees. Learner choices were measured and predicted using goal orientation, learning self‑efficacy, age, education, and computer experience. Results showed that variability in practice level and time on task predicted knowledge gain, with performance orientation interacting with self‑efficacy to influence practice level, while mastery orientation unexpectedly reduced practice level.

Abstract

Compared to traditional instructor‐led training, computer‐delivered training typically offers learners more control over their instruction. In learner‐controlled environments, learner choices regarding practice level, time on task, and attention are expected to be critical determinants of training effectiveness. To examine the effect of learner choices in computer‐based training, a study was conducted with 78 employees taking an Intranet‐delivered training course. Learner choices were assessed and predicted with goal orientation (mastery and performance) and learning self‐efficacy, as well as age, education, and computer experience. Results indicate considerable variability among trainees in practice level and time on task, which both predict knowledge gain. Performance orientation interacted with learning self‐efficacy to determine practice level, and mastery orientation had an unexpected negative effect. Implications for the use of computers to deliver training and for future research are discussed.