DELAY OF SELF-TESTING IN THREE TYPES OF PROGRAMED TEXT

This study compared three intervals of delay (corresponding to the times required to read several words, paragraphs, or pages) between initial reading and subsequent self-testing for recall, in three types of programed texts. One type of text permitted the subject to reread before answering (Preview), another after answering (Review), and a third type exposed the correct answer after the subject responded (Confirmation). Three matched groups of pretested sixth graders, 55 in all, read the three types of programs and took a posttest. Both variables, program type and delay interval, affected program errors but neither affected gain scores. However, all delay intervals of self-testing were superior to no self-testing. Related research was reviewed from a cybernetic viewpoint. (Author)