An empirical study of computer system learning: Comparison of co-discovery and self-discovery methods

Author(s): Ward, L. M., Benbasat, I.

Journal/Book: Inf Systems Res. 1997; 8: 901 Elkridge Landing Rd, Ste 400, Linthicum HTS, MD 21090-2909. Inst Operations Research Management Sciences. 254-272.

Abstract: This paper reports a study that examined two types of exploratory computer learning methods: self-discovery vs. Co-discovery, the latter of which involves two users working together to learn a system. An experiment was conducted to compare these two methods and the results were interpreted within a mental model framework. Co-discovery subjects were better than self-discovery subjects at making inferences about the capability and extended functions of the system. Furthermore, while working by themselves after an initial period of learning, they performed better in a similar, though more complex task than the one they encountered at the learning phase. Process tracing analysis showed that self-discovery subjects focused more on surface structures, such as detailed physical actions, for implementing the task. On the other hand, co-discovery groups focused more on relating lower level actions to higher level goals. Therefore, co-discovery subjects had a better understanding of the relationships between the physical actions and goals, and hence formed mental models with higher inference potential than self-discovery subjects.

Note: Article Lim KH, Univ Hawaii Manoa, Coll Business Adm, Dept Decis Sci, Honolulu,HI 96822 USA

Keyword(s): mental models; verbal protocols; computer system learning; co-discovery learning; process tracing; inference; MENTAL MODELS; BLACK-BOX; INTERFACE; USERS

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