Data Entry Performance as a Function of Method and Instructional Strategy

Abstract

In Experiment 1, a response-sensitive instructional strategy was compared to three traditional, linear, instructional strategies for use in an embedded training program designed for manual data entry operators in the Army Tactical Operations System command and control system. Results showed that using a response-sensitive strategy can reduce training time without reducing inputting accuracy in a post-training test given in an operational setting. Experiment 2 examined the relative efficiency of [our different manual data entry methods: typing; typing with an error corrector; selecting from menus; and typing with autocompletion and an English option. Results show that selecting from menus is the most accurate inputting method. No differences were found in entry times among the methods, although participants may not have had sufficient practice for such differences to materialize. Results also showed little agreement between preference and performance for the methods.