Training users of a prototype DSS

ABSTRACT

The ITM (interactive training manual) is a mechanized training package which allows users to learn a prototype decision support system while interacting with an actual grapics system and data base. Decision support systems, which offer powerful, computer-based functions to professional nonprogrammers, place heavy demands upon training because users tend to have severe time constraints and a low tolerance for training. This paper describes the ITM and gives results of an experiment which compares the ITM to human tutors. Results show that the ITM decreases instructor time while maintaining or improving student performance. These results are quite encouraging since good human tutors are generally considered to provide the most effective individualized instruction.

REFERENCES

• 1: Brown, J. S., Burton, R. R., & Bell, A. G. (1975). A step toward creating a reactive learning environment. International Journal of Man-Machine Studies, 7, 675.
• 2: Carbonell, J. R. & Collins, A. M. (1973). Natural semantics in artificial intelligence. Proceedings of Third International Joint Conference on Artificial Intelligence. Menlo Park California: SRI Publications Department. p. 344.
• 3: Carbonell, J. R. (1970). AI in CAI: an artificial intelligence approach to computer assisted instruction. IEEE Transactions on Man-Machine Systems, MMS-11, 190.
• 4: Carlson, E. D. and Sutton, J. A. (1974). A case study of nonprogrammer, interactive problem solving. IBM Research Report RJ1382, IBM Research Laboratory, San Jose, California.
• 5: Crable, P. A. (1974). Analyzing an urban growth policy using an interactive computing system. National Conference of American Institute of Planners. Denver, Colorado.
• 6: Cristiani, E. J., Evey, R. J., Goldman, R. E. & Mantey, P. E. (1973). An interactive system for aiding evaluation of local government policies. IEEE Transactions on Systems, Man and Cybernetics, 3, No. 2, 141.
• 7: Gorry, G. Anthony & Morton, Michael S. Scott (1971). A framework for management information systems. Sloan Management Review, 12, 55.
• 8: Grace, B. F. (1975a). A case study of man/computer problem-solving: observations on interactive formulation of school attendance boundaries. IBM Research Report RJ 1483, IBM Research Laboratory, San Jose, California.
• 9: Grace, Barbara F. (1975b). GADS (Geo-Data Analysis and Display System): Interactive Training Manual (ITM). IBM Research Laboratory, San Jose, California.
• 10: Grace, Barbara F. (1976). Training users of decision support systems. IBM Research Report RJ1790, IBM Research Laboratory, 5/31/76.
• 11: Judd, W. A. (1973). Learner-controlled computer-assisted instruction. Computers in the Instructional Process: Report of an Instructional School, ed., K. Zinn, M. Refice, A. Romano, Amsterdam: Elsevier.
• 12: McKeachie, Wilbert J. (1974). Instructional psychology. Annual Review of Psychology, 25.
• 13: Morton, M. S. Scott (1971). Management Decision Systems, Division of Research, Graduate School of Business Administration, Harvard University, Boston.
• 14: Wytock, David M. & Grace, Barbara F. (1975), Computer assistance for planning school attendance boundaries. URISA, Seattle, Washington.