Abstract
This research explores how the effectiveness of word-processing training is impacted by a trainee's goal (learning vs. performance) and whether the training program is designed to encourage or discourage errors (error management vs. error avoidant). Ninety-four trainees were randomly assigned to one of four word processing training programs. Results indicated several beneficial effects of both error management training and learning goals including enhanced performance, increased intrinsic motivation, and decreased frustration. Results are discussed in terms of how error management principles might be implemented as well as which worker groups might be most responsive to this type of training.
This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.
Similar content being viewed by others
REFERENCES
Algera, J. A., Koopman, P. L., & Vijlbrief, H. P. (1986). Management strategies adapting organizations to new technologies. Paper presented at the 21st International Congress of Applied Psychology, Jerusalem, Israel.
Amabile, T. M. (1979). Effects of external evaluations on artistic creativity. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 37, 221–233.
Bureau of Labor Statistics. (1990). Outlook 2000 (Bulletin 2352). Washington, DC: United States Department of Labor.
Cleveland, J. N. (1991). Using hypothetical and actual applicants in assessing person-organization fit: a methodological note. Journal of Social Psychology, 21, 1004–1011.
Cook, T. D., & Campbell, D. T. (1979). Quasi-Experimentation. Boston: Houghton Mifflin.
Deci, E. (1971). Effects of externally mediated rewards on intrinsic motivation. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 18, 105–115.
Denton, F. T., Feaver, C. H., & Spencer, B. G. (1986). Prospective aging of the population and its implications for the labor force and government expenditures. Canadian Journal on Aging, 5, 75–95.
Dweck, C. S., & Leggett, E. L. (1988). A socio-cognitive approach to motivation and personality. Psychological Review, 95, 256–273.
Elliot, E.S., & Dweck, C.S. (1988). Goals: An approach to motivation and achievement. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 54, 5–12.
Fisher, K.M., & Lipson, J. I. (1986). Twenty questions about student errors. Journal of Research in Science Teaching, 23, 783–803.
Frese, M., & Altmann, A. (1989). The treatment of errors in learning and training. In L. Bainbridge & S.A. Ruiz Quintanill (Ed.), Developing Skills in Information Technology. (pp. 65–87). New York: Wiley.
Frese, M., Brodbeck, F., Heinbokel, T., Mooser, C., Scheiffenbaum, E., & Thiemann, P. (1991). Errors in training computer skills: On the positive function of errors. Human Computer Interaction, 6, 77–93.
Gist, M., Rosen, B. & Schwoerer, C. (1988). The influences of training method and training age on the acquisition of computer skills. Personnel Psychology, 41, 255–265.
Goldstein, I.L., & Gilliam, P. (1990). Training system issues in the year 2000. American Psychologist, 45, 134–143.
Grief, S., & Keller, H. (1990). Innovation and the design of work and learning environments: The concept of explanation and exploration in human-computer interaction. In M. A. West & J. L. Fatt (Ed.), Innovation and Creativity at work (pp. 231–249). New York: Wiley.
Mayo, R. J. (1976). The development and construct validation of a measure of intrinsic motivation. Unpublished doctoral dissertation, Purdue University.
Nelson, D. (1987). Organizational socialization: A stress perspective. Journal of Occupational Behavior, 8, 311–324.
Noe, R.A. (1986). Training attributes and attitudes: Neglected influences on training effectiveness. Academy of Management Review, 11, 736–749.
Nurius, P.S. (1991). A review of automated assessment. Computer Literacy in Human Services, 6, 265–281.
Office of Technology Assessment. (1985). Automation of America's Offices, 1985–2000. Washington, DC: U.S. Congress, Library of Congress.
Sandell, S.H. (1987). Prospects of the older workers: The demographics and economic contest. In S.H. Sanders (Ed.), The problem isn't age: Work and older Americans (pp. 3–15). New York: Praeger.
Wendel, R., & Frese, M. (1987). Developing exploratory strategies in training: The general approach and a specific example for manual use. In B. Shackel & H. J. Bullinger (Ed.), Human Computer Interaction, Proceedings, Interact '87. (pp. 943–948) Amsterdam: North-Holland.
Wood, R., & Bandura, A. (1989). Impact of conceptions of ability on self regulatory mechanisms and complex decision making. Journal of Personality and Social Psychology, 56, 407–415.
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Nordstrom, C.R., Wendland, D. & Williams, K.B. “To Err is Human”: An Examination of the Effectiveness of Error Management Training. Journal of Business and Psychology 12, 269–282 (1998). https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1025019212263
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1023/A:1025019212263