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The suitability of computer‐based training for workers with limited formal education: a case study from the US agricultural sector
Author(s) -
Anger W. Kent,
Stupfel Jeff,
Ammerman Tammara,
Tamulinas Alys,
Bodner Todd,
Rohlman Diane S.
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
international journal of training and development
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.558
H-Index - 26
eISSN - 1468-2419
pISSN - 1360-3736
DOI - 10.1111/j.1468-2419.2006.00260.x
Subject(s) - workforce , training (meteorology) , mainstream , agriculture , formal education , work (physics) , psychology , agricultural education , operations management , medical education , business , pedagogy , engineering , political science , economics , medicine , economic growth , geography , mechanical engineering , archaeology , meteorology , law
The suitability of computer‐based instruction (CBI) for workers with limited education was evaluated in an Hispanic orchard workforce that reported little computer experience and 5.6 mean years of formal education. Ladder safety training was completed by employees who rated the training highly (effect size [d_gain] = 5.68), and their knowledge of ladder safety improved (d_gain = 1.45). There was a significant increase (p < 0.01) in safe work practices immediately after training (d_gain = 0.70), at 40 days post training (d_gain = 0.87) and at 60 days (d_gain = 1.40), indicating durability. As in mainstream populations, reaction or affective ratings correlated well with utility ratings, but not with behavior change. This demonstrates that an agricultural workforce with limited formal education can learn job safety from CBI and translate the knowledge to work practice changes, and those changes are durable.