Date of Award
2001
Document Type
Practicum
Degree Name
Doctor of Education
Department
Programs for Higher Education
Advisor
Dr. Ellen Clymer
Keywords
computer-aided instruction, computer-based training, computer anxiety, employee training, food manufacturing, hazardous chemicals, instructor-led training, Occupational Safety and Health Administration, posttest scores, safety knowledge, safety training, telecommunications, traditional lecture method, workplace training
Abstract
Developments in the use of technology in computing and telecommunications have created a demand in the workplace for individuals with advanced sets of skills. Due to these developments there has been an increase in the range of options in training design and delivery. The problem prompting this study was that it was unknown if the computer-aided instruction (CAI) was an effective means to deliver the necessary safety knowledge.
The purpose of this study was to assess the effectiveness of computer-based training (CBT) versus the traditional lecture method. The research hypothesis for the study was; "Is there a significant difference in the posttest scores between employees receiving safety training by computer-aided instruction compared to employees receiving traditional lecture method of instruction?"
The study was conducted at a large food manufacturing site located in Davenport, Iowa. Subjects were production workers (N=90). All subjects completed a hazardous chemicals safety training program with one treatment group completing the course using CBT (N=45) and the other group completing the course via a traditional instructor-led session (N=45). The level of safety knowledge was tested using a 12-item posttest.
Results indicated no significant difference existed between the posttest scores of the traditional and CAI group (t = 0.821, d.f. = 88, p < .05). From the results, it was concluded the CAI method for safety training was as effective as the more traditional group lecture.
Recommendations included the continued use of CAI for safety training for those employees who self-select to use this method and the enhancement of the CAI with elements to address site specific items in order to comply with Occupational Safety and Health Administration standards.
Further study of the benefits of CAI was also recommended, with consideration given to the amount of time using CAI compared to time spent using traditional safety training and also consideration of the individual's computer anxiety being assessed prior to using CAI to determine its appropriateness.