Modeling the behavior of the computer-assisted instruction user
The field of computer-assisted instruction CAI contains abundant studies on effectiveness of particular programs or systems. However, the nature of the field is such that the computer is the focus of research, not the users. Few research studies have focused on the behavior of the individual CAI user. Morgan (1981) stated that descriptive studies are needed to clarify what the important phenomena of user behavior are. The need for such studies is particularly acute in computer-assisted instruction. Building a behavioral model would enable us to understand problem-solving strategies and rules applied by the user during a CAI experience. Also, courseware developers could use this information to design tutoring systems that are more responsive to individual differences than our present CAI is. This paper proposes a naturalistic model for evaluating both affective and cognitive characteristics of the CAI user. It begins with a discussion of features of user behavior, followed by a description of evaluation methodology that can lead to modeling user behavior. The paper concludes with a discussion of how implementation of this model can contribute to the fields of CAI and cognitive psychology.
- Research Organization:
- Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL), Los Alamos, NM (United States)
- DOE Contract Number:
- W-7405-ENG-36
- OSTI ID:
- 6317670
- Report Number(s):
- LA-UR-82-3473; CONF-830506-1; ON: DE83004140
- Resource Relation:
- Conference: ADCIS conference, Denver, CO, USA, 9 May 1983; Other Information: Portions are illegible in microfiche products
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
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