Authors
Amy Chan, Peter Caputi, Suzanne Hilellis, Zi Zhu, & Rohan Jayasuriya
Abstract
This paper presents preliminary findings of an application of the Panko-Aurigemma (2010) error taxonomy to errors generated in a spreadsheet training task.
Data from 11 inexperienced trainees were obtained on two spreadsheet training tasks of different complexity and scored by two judges. High levels of inter-rater reliability were obtained for a refined planning and execution error classification.
Preliminary findings relating to the likely processes underlying task completion indicate that trainees make more execution than planning errors on easy tasks. Negative associations were found between the frequency of execution and planning errors and task performance when completing easy tasks.
For hard tasks, we found a negative association between task performance and frequency of execution errors; however, the association between the number of planning errors and performance was positive.
These findings point to the utility of examining error types in IS training strategy research.
Sample
Averaged across the two judges, the ratio of planning versus execution errors is higher for the Easy task than for the Hard task.
This finding is not surprising, given that inexperienced spreadsheet users might make more errors – regardless of error type – when faced with a harder task.
However, this finding also raises the issue that task characteristics, as well as user characteristics, are both highly relevant determinants of the relative frequencies of different types of spreadsheet errors.
Publication
2010, ACIS 2010, Number 69
Full article
Applying an error taxonomy to examine inexperienced spreadsheet users' planning and execution errors
