CAI/multimedia approach to farm tractor and machinery safety certification
Abstract
The primary goal of this project was to develop and demonstrate the educational effectiveness of a CAI/Multimedia computer program for use by youth enrolled in the federally-prescribed Farm Tractor and Machinery Safety Certification Programs. Present instructional material, though technically accurate, is less than appealing to youth and qualified instructors and is becoming more difficult to locate. The computer program could reduce the need for qualified instructors and provide a means for individuals to complete the training at their convenience. The computer program was based on Silletto and Hull's "Safe Operation of Agricultural Equipment" students' manual. Seventy-two subjects were randomly divided with half receiving traditional instructor-based training and half receiving self-instruction using the computer program. All subjects were administered a participant questionnaire and pretest prior to their assignment to instruction method. Following completion of the 11 unit course, all subjects were administered a post test. Those subjects who had received computer-based instruction then completed a multimedia perception questionnaire. There was no significant difference in mean knowledge gain between instructional methods, however, subjects who received computer-based instruction dominated both the high achievement and low achievement groups. It was concluded that the CAI/Multimedia program did provide adequate instruction since no significant difference in mean knowledge gain existed. Additional research is needed to determine whether hands-on experience available only through the traditional method would improve operator skills and retention of knowledge gained.
Degree
Ph.D.
Advisors
Field, Purdue University.
Subject Area
Agricultural engineering|Computer science
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