Most computer-based training (CBT) research has ignored variables other than the software itself. Yet there are other factors which can influence achievement. This study explored the impact of instructor-student interaction when students worked CBT in pairs. Compared to an earlier study in which instructor interaction positively influence achievement when students worked CBT individually, instructor interaction had no effect on achievement. Evidently, many if not all of the social functions served by the instructor in the traditional classroom can be provided by a CBT team partner. Implications of these results, to include the role of the instructor and the responsibility of the software developer, are discussed.
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