An investigation of computer generated knowledge retention activities in computer-based training with adult learners

Abstract

The goal of this investigation was to evaluate the impact of training and theeffectiveness of different types of knowledge retention activities delivered bycomputer-based training programs. This study focused on a computer-based learningsystem called the Profound Learning Delivery System (PLS). PLS is an application designed to improve the content knowledge retention of adult learners who arecompleting computer-based training.

This study used a pretest-posttest experimental design to compare adult learners’knowledge of Microsoft Outlook ("Outlook," 1997) before and after a computer-basedtraining session. Participants were trained using two different computer-basedinstructional programs; a commercially available software program matched forcomparison purposes and PLS. This comparison involved three different formats forpost-instruction retention activities that were; no review activities, user generatedreview activities, and program generated retention activities. Results indicate, therewas a significant difference between the groups 60 days after training. This resultdemonstrated that PLS has potential worth exploring.