The Relationship of Information System Training Methods and Cognitive Ability to End-User Satisfaction, Comprehension, and Skill Transfer: A Longitudinal Field Study

Steven J. Simon, Varun Grover, James T. C. Teng and Kathleen Whitcomb
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Steven J. Simon: Meinders School of Business, 2501 North Blackwelder, Oklahoma City University, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
Varun Grover: Department of Management Science, H. William Close Building, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208
James T. C. Teng: Department of Management Science, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208
Kathleen Whitcomb: Department of Management Science, H. William Close Building, University of South Carolina, Columbia, South Carolina 29208

Information Systems Research, 1996, vol. 7, issue 4, 466-490

Abstract: This study compares traditional and nontraditional training techniques with regard to computer related training. Its purpose was to determine which training methods could best be utilized in computer related training to maximize a trainee's retention of material and transfer of learning. A field experiment was conducted using two hundred members of active duty U.S. Naval Construction Battalion as subjects. Evaluation of trainees included a pre-training screening, post-training evaluation (immediately after training), and a follow-up session (four weeks after the post-training session) utilizing previously validated instruments. Training treatments included instruction (lecture), exploration (independent study), and a nontraditional technique---behavior modeling (an enhanced combination of the other two methods). Performance outcomes were operationalized using hands-on task performance and comprehension of the computer system as dependent variables. End-user satisfaction with the computer system was also measured. Two covariates, cognitive ability and system use, were also introduced into the study. The use of hands-on training methods, especially behavior modeling, resulted in superior retention of knowledge, transfer of learning, and end-user satisfaction. Cognitive ability failed to be a good predictor of trainee success but a connection was established between training methodology, system use, and end-user satisfaction.

Keywords: computer training; end-user satisfaction; behavior modeling (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 1996
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