Computer-Based Training: The Role of Individual Differences on Motivation to Learn and Training Outcomes
James R. Harrington
Dr. Mark Hatala, Faculty Mentor

Over the past twenty years, organizations have invested billions of dollars in developing computer-based training (CBT). These organizations want to streamline the learning process and reduce training costs by using computers to train employees. Using a theoretical perspective, I analyzed various key individual differences above and beyond cognitive ability to better understand and predict their effects on motivation and learning outcomes in CBT. These individual differences included motivation to learn, computer self-efficacy, conscientiousness, computer anxiety, computer experience and attitudes towards computers. As with most training development models, cognitive ability was a highly predictive variable of future success in training. However, cognitive ability was not the only variable of interest. Participants with higher computer self-efficacy had more motivation to learn in a computer-based environment. These participants would have more self-confidence; however, participants who had positive attitudes towards computers did not always have more motivation to learn.

Keywords: computers, computer-based training

Topic(s):Psychology

Presentation Type: Poster

Session: 13-
Location: OP Lobby
Time: 

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