DESCRIPTIVE MODELS IN LEARNING COMMAND LANGUAGES

Benefits were examined for descriptive models in learning Microsoft di sk operating system (MS DOS) language commands associated with hierarc hical directory and file manipulation. Two models were compared: a mod el likening a computer directory network to physical geography (metaph or) and a logic diagram for how a command interpreter decomposes a sta tement (flow chart). Computer-experienced or -inexperienced subjects w ere assigned to 1 of 4 conditions representing presence or absence of the metaphor and flow chart. Results showed that the metaphor improved performance of most subjects on most transfer items, with inexperienc ed subjects benefiting most. On complex transfer items, the flow chart had no effect for experienced subjects but handicapped inexperienced subjects. Results are discussed in terms of the representational deman ds of command execution with hierarchical directories, as well as the general implications for descriptive model use in unfamiliar technical skills domains.