User Input Mode and Computer-Aided Instruction 1

Abstract

An evaluation of on-line computer-aided instruction within a management information system compared typewriter and lightpen input modes as students learned to use the system. The following conclusions were supported: 1. Computer-aided instruction is feasible in a general-purpose management information system; 2. It is also feasible to demonstrate retention of learned material through computer-administered tests; 3. Professional typing skills are not necessary to use the typewriter input mode effectively, provided that the inputs required are short and direct; 4. In this particular setting there seemed to be evidence that the typewriter was a more effective input device than the lightpen during the instructional sequence, but this evidence is questionable in view of considerable individual differences among the students; 5. Regardless of performance, students responded favorably to their experience with computer-aided instruction.