title: Relating indices of knowledge structure coherence and accuracy to skill-based performance: Is there utility in using a combination of indices?
abstract: The authors examined the relative criterion-related validity of knowledge structure coherence and two accuracy-based indices (closeness and correlation) as well as the utility of using a combination of knowledge structure indices in the prediction of skill acquisition and transfer. Findings from an aggregation of 5 independent samples (N = 958) whose participants underwent training on a complex computer simulation indicated that coherence and the accuracy-based indices yielded comparable zero-order predictive validities. Support for the incremental validity of using a combination of indices was mixed; the most, albeit small, gain came in pairing coherence and closeness when predicting transfer. After controlling for baseline skill, general mental ability, and declarative knowledge, only coherence explained a statistically significant amount of unique variance in transfer. Overall, the results suggested that the different indices largely overlap in their representation of knowledge organization, but that coherence better reflects adaptable aspects of knowledge organization important to skill transfer.
authors: Department of Psychology, University of Oklahoma, OK 73019-2007, USA.
authors: Matthew J
authors: MJ
authors: Schuelke
authors: Eric Anthony
authors: EA
authors: Day
authors: Lauren E
authors: LE
authors: McEntire
authors: Jazmine Espejo
authors: JE
authors: Boatman
authors: Xiaoqian
authors: X
authors: Wang
authors: Vanessa
authors: V
authors: Kowollik
authors: Paul R
authors: PR
authors: Boatman
mesh_terms: D000293:Adolescent; D000465:Algorithms; D001076:Aptitude; D001288:Attention; D003198:Computer Simulation; D003657:Decision Making; D004650:Employee Performance Appraisal; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D009048:Motor Skills; D011340:Problem Solving; D011361:Professional Competence; D013192:Staff Development; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D013647:Task Performance and Analysis; D014163:Transfer, Psychology; D018910:Video Games; D055815:Young Adult