Some behavioural factors affecting the training of naive users of an interactive computer system

This paper describes the design considerations underlying the development of a self-contained computer system which is to form the basis of a medical information system at Southend Hospital. A detailed trial has been conducted to examine the problems in training naive computer users in the use of such a system. The trial involved a large sample of clerical and secretarial staff and provided some 50 hr of observation and measurement of man-machine interaction. Analysis of test results has required the development of new measures of performance for recording behavioural variables, conceptualization of the system, and level of ability.

It is shown that it is possible, with a self-teaching computer system, to train “computer-naive” clerical staff to a high degree of competence in a very small number of short training sessions. Behavioural patterns are examined with regard to their influence on the design of command structures.