A Comparative Assessment of Computer-Based Media for Presenting Job Task Instructions

This study compared the effects of previous task training/experience and alternative methods for presenting procedural instructions on job task performance. Six computer-based presentation methods were examined on four types of oscilloscope operator tasks. The presentation methods were text-only, audio-only, text-audio, text-graphics, audio-graphics, and text-audio-graphics. Results showed that regardless of the subjects' prior training and experience, the most efficient and effective task performances were obtained through a combination of audio and graphics media; an effect which can be further enhanced by the addition of redundant task instructions in textual form. The practical applications and theoretical implications of these findings are discussed.