Errors in Training Computer Skills: On the Positive Function of Errors

Research output: Journal contributionsJournal articlesResearchpeer-review

Authors

  • Michael Frese
  • Felix Brodbeck
  • Torsten Heinbokel
  • Christina Mooser
  • Erik Schleiffenbaum
  • Petra Thiemann
Traditionally, errors are avoided in training. In contrast to this approach, it is argued that errors can also have a positive function and that one has to learn to deal efficiently with errors on a strategic and an emotional level (error management). An experiment tested these assumptions. One group (n = 9) received guidance for error-free performance; another group (n = 15) received error training. In the latter group, errors were produced by assigning problems that were too difficult to deal wifi. The error-training group showed higher scores in the nonspeed performance tests. Error training seems to be positive for people with high scores on the cognitive failure questionnaire (Broadbent, Cooper, FitzGerald, & Parkes, 1982). © 1991, Taylor & Francis Group, LLC. All rights reserved.
Original languageEnglish
JournalHuman-Computer Interaction
Volume6
Issue number1
Pages (from-to)77-93
Number of pages17
ISSN0737-0024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 01.03.1991
Externally publishedYes