An evaluation of an instructor-led and self-managed computer software training course

Abstract

This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of an instructor-led and a self-managed computer
 training course. A sample of forty nine (n=49) previously disadvantaged South African adult
 learners was used. Half the sample was randomly assigned to the instructor-led course, while the
 other half was assigned to the self-managed course.
 Data dealing with the course content and design, subject demographics, previous computer
 experience, preferred learning style, and learning potential was collected prior to each course.
 After the course, the ability to create key outcomes using the learned software was assessed, as
 well as subject perceptions of the course and various support and performance system factors. The
 results showed that there was no significant difference between the performance on the
 competence assessment of the students from the two groups. The data did, however, indicate a
 stronger preference for the self-managed approach. A number of limitations to the study were also
 noted.

Industrial and Organisational Psychology

M.A. (Industrial Psychology)