Individual Differences and Learning Performance in Computer-based Training

摘要

This work is in support of a multi-year project to evaluate 'people- centered' aspects of computer-based training (CBT) or technology assisted instruction. The core component of the work will be developing a longitudinal database that will include individual difference measures of non-cognitive characteristics (e.g., personality, temperament, interests) of students, student engagement and satisfaction with instruction, student outcomes, and early job satisfaction and performance. This report is a selected literature review to provide a starting point from which to view the interaction between individual differences in non-cognitive characteristics, instructional methods, and learning outcomes to inform decisions on which non-cognitive characteristics to use in the research. Two-hundred and thirty-five research and theoretical articles, book chapters, and reports were reviewed. Dozens of non-cognitive characteristics and their association with learning outcomes were scrutinized, with a special emphasis on those associated with computer-based training. Eight categories of individual difference constructs were found to be important predictors of outcomes. motivation to learn; intrinsic motivation; metacognitive abilities; goal orientation; personal control beliefs; personality measures (e.g., conscientiousness, flexibility, emotional control); organizational commitment and perceptions of fairness; and attitudes towards training. While the results were not predetermined, following the review of critical non-cognitive characteristics, the recommendation is to utilize a Navy- developed battery of personality traits referred to as the Navy Computer Adaptive Personality Scales (NCAPS) because it's 19 traits cover the characteristics that should be measured, the battery is owned by the Navy and is not proprietary, has proven to be fake resistant, has been evaluated many Navy personnel, and it is web-enabled which reduces barriers to administration.