Accession Number:

ADA055586

Title:

Predicting Insufficient Learning of a Complex Procedure.

Descriptive Note:

Research rept.,

Corporate Author:

IBM THOMAS J WATSON RESEARCH CENTER YORKTOWN HEIGHTS N Y

Personal Author(s):

• Lyon,Don
• Thomas,John C.

Report Date:

1977-07-11

Pagination or Media Count:

22.0

Abstract:

Thorough learning of complex procedures is required in the design, production, and purchase of software. This study examines the utility of three sources of information for predicting errors in such learning. Twenty-eight subjects were asked to learn thoroughly a complex order handling and invoicing system. The subjects were then tested by having them fill out the invoice associated with a present order. During this simulation they were allowed reference to necessary data files but were not allowed reference to any procedural descriptions. The subjects prior knowledge and the subjects own estimate of the thoroughness of his or her learning were both predictive of overall performance, while study time was not predictive. Author

Descriptors:

• *LEARNING
• *COMPREHENSION
• PREDICTIONS
• TIME DEPENDENCE
• PERFORMANCE(HUMAN)
• ESTIMATES
• ERRORS

Subject Categories:

• Psychology

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE