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Varying Feedback Strategy And Scheduling In Simulator Training: Effects On Learner Perceptions, Initial Learning, And Transfer, Sonya Bland-Williams

STEMPS Theses & Dissertations

This experimental study investigated the effects of visual feedback on initial learning, perceived self-efficacy, workload, near transfer, far transfer, and perceived realism during a simulator-based training task. Prior studies indicate that providing feedback is critical for schema development (Salmoni, Schmidt, & Walter 1984; Sterman, 1994). However, its influence has been shown to dissipate and is not directly proportionate to the frequency at which it is given (Wulf, Shea, & Matschiner, 1998). A total of 54 participants completed the study forming six treatment groups. The independent treatment, visual feedback, was manipulated as scheduling (absolute—every practice trial or relative—every third trial) and strategies (gradual decrease of visual cues within the interface, gradual increase of visual cues within the interface, or a single consistent cue for each trial). Participants completed twelve practice trials of welding under one of six feedback manipulations; then, participants completed twelve practice trials of welding without it. Lastly, participants performed the weld task on actual equipment in a shop area. No treatment showed significant difference among groups with regard to initial learning ...