Effects of Computer-Based Role-Playing on Decision Making Skills

Abstract

The development of higher-order cognitive skills such as decision making is a critical component of science education. Two studies assess decisionmaking skills using common cognitive errors and evaluate the impact of computer-based laboratories on the development of these skills. The first establishes the prevalence of cognitive errors among high school students, undergraduates, and Earth Science professionals. The second examines the role of computer-aided instruction in the Earth Science domain on subsequent decision making. High school students took part in either a computer or equivalent paper-and-pencil role-playing exercise requiring students to evaluate the possible eruption of a volcano. Students who used the computer exercise made more consistent decisions than those who used the traditional paper-and-pencil exercise, suggesting that well designed computer-based laboratories can positively impact higher-order cognitive skills.