Performance and Simulated Performance Test Results as a Function of Instruction by Still and Motion Visuals

Abstract

This study evaluates the effectiveness of three different media in teaching a specific motor skill. Validated lessons utilizing three different media — motion/sound, slide/sound, and story boards — were used to teach basic manipulations of the M203 Grenade Launcher. Written and performance tests, derived directly from the instructional objectives, were used to evaluate the learning.

As evaluated by the performance test, learners using motion film performed significantly better than those using either slides or workbooks, and required significantly less time. Written tests, however, failed to detect this difference.

These results suggest that much previous research comparing media may have been inconclusive due to defects in experimental design, such as using a written test to measure motor skills taught by visual media.

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