Effects of Quiz Distribution on Web-Based Instruction in an Industrial Training Environment

Although Web-based training has experienced significant increase in popularity recently, there is a paucity of empirical information on how these programs should be designed. Fundamental questions about basic design elements (e.g., user interface, quizzing strategies) are still to be answered. This study evaluated quiz distribution in a Web-based training program for a manufacturing organization. Results indicated that the trainees—shop supervisors with little to no prior computer experience—had a very positive reaction to the course and performed well on the final test. Furthermore, frequency of pop-up quizzes during the course had no effect on the test scores, time needed to take the course, or the trainees' reaction to the course. These results are discussed in terms of their implication for Web-based instructional design.

[1]  L. T. Frase Some unpredicted effects of different questions upon learning from connected discourse. , 1968, Journal of educational psychology.

[2]  L. T. Frase,et al.  Effect of question location, pacing, and mode upon retention of prose material. , 1968, Journal of educational psychology.

[3]  Chen-Lin C. Kulik,et al.  Timing of Feedback and Verbal Learning , 1988 .

[4]  Chen-Lin C. Kulik,et al.  The Instructional Effect of Feedback in Test-Like Events , 1991 .

[5]  Craig Eric Schneier,et al.  Developing and Training Human Resources in Organizations , 1983 .

[6]  Chen-Lin C. Kulik,et al.  Effectiveness of computer-based instruction: An updated analysis. , 1991 .

[7]  James A. Kulik,et al.  Effects of Frequent Classroom Testing. , 1991 .

[8]  Reid A. Bates Principles of CBI Design and the Adult Learner: The Need for Further Research. , 1996 .

[9]  Lawrence T. Frase,et al.  Effect of Question Position and Frequency Upon Learning from Text Under Different Levels of Incentive. , 1970 .

[10]  Ioana Rus,et al.  Technology Support for Knowledge Management , 2002, LSO.

[11]  R. Mayer,et al.  Cognitive Principles of Multimedia Learning: The Role of Modality and Contiguity , 1999 .

[12]  Gabriele Wulf,et al.  Continuous Concurrent Feedback Degrades Skill Learning: Implications for Training and Simulation , 1997, Hum. Factors.

[13]  G Wulf,et al.  Reduced feedback frequency enhances generalized motor program learning but not parameterization learning. , 1993, Journal of experimental psychology. Learning, memory, and cognition.

[14]  D. Robinson,et al.  Individual study, interactive multimedia, or cooperative learning : Which activity best supplements lecture-based distance education? , 1999 .

[15]  R. Kozma Learning with Media , 1991 .

[16]  David H. Jonassen,et al.  Learningwith media: Restructuring the debate , 1994 .