The role of individual and system characteristics in computerized training systems

摘要

Two studies examined the role of characteristics that are important to consider in the development of computerized training systems. The first study employed covariance structure modeling and tested a hypothesized model regarding the relationship among three latent variables and a set of measured variables serving as indicators for the latent variables. The overall model fit quite well according to both statistical and practical assessments. Results indicate that, for naive users, a latent variable reflecting an individual's attitude toward computers has a significant influence on the other two latent variables, one being how the computerized task is perceived, and the second being the choice of interacting with a computer in the future. A structural path representing the influence of the current experience with the computer has a small directional influence on future interaction preference with a person rather than a computer. A second study examined system characteristics and focused specifically on preferences for how much power an expert system should be given. Scenarios were developed depicting three different types of expert systems, each with three different levels of power. Results indicate that individuals prefer those systems with either low or moderate power, those which do not initiate action without human intervention. Systems that initiate action on their own are not viewed positively. The discussion focuses on implications for future training systems.