Dissertation Defenses

Doctoral Dissertation Announcement

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Candidate: Douglas A. Johnson

Degree of: Doctor of Philosophy

Department: Psychology

Title: When Self-Pacing Goes Wrong: A Comparison of Two Methods for Reducing Computer-Based Racing

Committee:
Dr. Alyce Dickinson, Chair
Dr. John Austin
Dr. Bradley Huitema
Dr. Kevin Munson

Date: Monday, May 4, 2009, 3:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
3715 Wood Hall

Abstract:
Self-pacing, although often seen as one of the primary benefits of computer-based instruction (CBI), can also result in an important problem, namely, computer-based racing. Computer-based racing is when learners respond so quickly within CBI that mistakes are made, even on well-known material. This study compares traditional CBI with two forms of CBI designed to reduce computer-based racing: incentives/disincentives and post-feedback delays. All three formats are evaluated in terms of both performance and satisfaction using a between group repeated measures design with pretest and posttest. Dependent measures include posttest scores, satisfaction questionnaire ratings, percentage correct during learning, and total training time. Posttest scores favor the use of post-feedback delays to improve learning over incentives/disincentives and control conditions. Post-feedback delays negatively affect satisfaction in comparison to the control condition, although no satisfaction differences are found between incentives/disincentives and post-feedback delays.