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Download fileAn experimental comparison of alternative proof construction environments
journal contribution
posted on 01.01.1993, 00:00 authored by Richard Scheines, SiegAbstract: "In this paper we compare computerized environments in which students complete proof construction exercises in formal logic. Afterbeing given a pretest for logical aptitude, three matched groups were presented identical course material on logic for approximately five weeks by a computer. During the treatment, all students were required to complete several hundred proof construction exercises. The three groups did the exercises and the midterm in different environments. The group with a more sophisticated interface performed better on the midterm. Nearly all the difference in performance showed up in the harder problems. In a follow up experiment in which flexible strategic problem solving help was added to the environment, performance improved slightly, but the data are inconclusive."