The Availability of Objectives and Performance in a Computer-Managed Graduate Course.
The effects of presenting objectives to students in a graduate computer-managed course were investigated. The 32 Ss who registered for the course “Techniques of Programmed Instruction” were randomly assigned to an objective group and a non-objective group. The hypotheses, based on previous laboratory studies, that objectives would decrease test-item-latency, increase study time, and facilitate performance on unit tests were not supported. Objectives did significantly reduce state anxiety; however, even that effect diminished as the course progressed. Apparently graduate students are able to “psych out” a course very rapidly, and objectives have little effect.