Performance- vs. mastery-oriented digital feedback in simulation training: An experimental research approach

Abstract

This study inspects the potential relationships between performance-, and mastery-orientated digital feedback, and perceptions of fairness, and relevance of feedback received during simulation training. We also included self-efficacy as a possible moderating variable. Using established theory and research on the construct of performance-, and mastery-oriented feedback, fairness and relevance and self-efficacy, we derived at 7 testable hypotheses that are exposed to empirical examination. We tested our hypotheses using a quasi-experimental posttest design with two conditions, where the digital feedback provided to the trainees by the simulator was manipulated. One group received performanceoriented digital feedback, and the other received mastery-oriented digital feedback. Our results indicated a positive relationship between self-efficacy and perceptions of feedback relevance. Otherwise our hypotheses received no support, as statistically significant differences were not found, and we can therefore not make any causal inference about the relationship between performance and mastery oriented digital feedback and perceptions of fairness and relevance of feedback during training. Patterns did emerge from our data, indicating slightly more positive perceptions of feedback in the PODF group, compared to the MODF group, however not at a significant level. Possible explanations for the non-significant findings are discussed, where the lack of an adequately sized sample, non -randomized assignment to the experiment groups and operationalization of the two conditions of the experiment, are brought forth as important, unfavorable factors. A potential practical implication of this thesis is how feedback might be distributed in organizations, and a potential theoretical implication is presenting a novel combination of the included variables in hypothesizing certain relationships, in light of a computerized simulator.