Evaluation of a Markov-Decision Model for Instructional Sequence Optimization

Abstract : Two CAI programs in electronics and trigonometry were written to test the Wollmer Markov Model for optimizing hierarchical learning; calibration samples totalling 110 students completed these programs. Since the model postulated that transfer effects would be a function of amount of practice, half the students were required to complete one practice problem successfully before moving to the next stage; the other half had to do two practice problems successfully. The results are related to the number of subskills involved in the final task that becomes a major determinant of performance time.