The Effects of Grouping, Self Esteem, and Locus of Control on Microcomputer Performance and Help Seeking by Mildly Handicapped Students

Abstract

The impact of grouping, learning handicap, locus of control, and self esteem on students' performance on a math problem-solving program was assessed in two studies. Outcome measures included: 1) the level of difficulty at which students selected to work, 2) use of a program help command, and 3) response accuracy with and without help. Despite indication from the non-computer instructional literature that grouping would facilitate problem-solving skills for some students, neither problem selections nor performance accuracy varied as a function of group configuration. Personal characteristics influenced problem selections, help seeking, and accuracy in anticipated directions but not consistently. More consistent patterns were noted as a function of initial student competency in math.