Michael E. Wasserman

Power to the people: Using learner control to improve trainee reactions and learning in web-based instructional environments.

This experimental study investigated the mechanisms by which learner control influences learning in an e-learning environment. The authors hypothesized that learner control would enhance learning indirectly through its effect on trainee reactions and learner engagement (in particular, off-task attention), such that learners who were more satisfied with the training and devoted more cognitive resources toward the instructional content versus off-task thoughts would possess greater posttraining knowledge. The study also examined the role of individual differences (training motivation and goal orientation) in the prediction of these 2 mediating variables. A sample of 274 undergraduates completed an e-learning program, either with or without interactive, learner control tools. Results suggest that both training satisfaction and off-task attention predicted subsequent learning. Learner control had a positive impact on training satisfaction but was not related to off-task attention. The individual difference variables had a differential impact on the mediating variables. In particular, performance orientation was linked to off-task attention, whereas mastery orientation was found to indirectly influence satisfaction via its direct effect on training motivation. Implications for the design and further study of e-learning are discussed.

E-nabled for E-Learning? The Moderating Role of Personality in Determining the Optimal Degree of Learner Control in an E-Learning Environment

This paper investigates the moderating role of specific Big Five personality traits on the relationship between learner control and training performance in an e-learning environment. Specifically, we examined the role of openness to experience, conscientiousness, and extraversion. Participants completed a video-based e-learning program with either a high or low level of learner control. Results demonstrated that the personality traits of openness to experience and extraversion moderated the relationship between learner control and training performance. Specifically, training performance was higher for trainees higher in openness and extraversion when they were in an environment with high learner control versus low learner control. Conversely, for trainees lower in these traits, performance was higher with low learner control versus high learner control. Future research and practical applications are discussed.

Integrated Electronic Medical Record Systems: Critical Success Factors for Implementation

Integrated Electronic Medical Record (EMR) systems are becoming an essential part of the fabric of modern healthcare. EMR systems have evolved from pure record-keeping to an integrated, enterprise-wide system that holds the promise of accurate, real time access to patient healthcare data. EMR systems can provide healthcare administrators and clinicians with the information necessary to improve patient care and lower costs. Little research has been done to identify critical success factors for EMR systems implementation. In this paper we treat EMR systems as a type of enterprise resource planning (ERP) system and address EMR implementation issues by drawing on theory and empirical research from both the healthcare information systems and ERP literatures. A theoretical model and propositions are offered, bolstered by data gleaned through structured interviews with health care professionals. Important success factors discussed include planning, consultants, project management, process redesign and the need for a project champion.

Evolution of supply chain management education in North America

This paper reviews the history and evolution of the Supply Chain Management (SCM) curricular content. Several trends in the SCM curriculum are discussed, including the integration of Information Technology (IT) throughout the supply chain, the development of cross-disciplinary content, the emerging emphasis on international business in supply chains, the increased attention placed on people and relationships and the growing importance of sustainability and reverse logistics. Next, the supply chain education landscape is discussed and the top-ranked US SCM programmes are analysed and classified into four general groups. Finally, we integrate our findings and offer recommendations for future developments.

Supply chain management program at Clarkson University: a systems approach

This article traces the development of the Clarkson University supply chain management (SCM) program. This program, which takes a systems approach, has achieved national recognition in recent years, earning a rating as one of the top SCM undergraduate programs in the nation by US News & World Report in 2003, 2004 and 2005. The emphasis of this paper is on the systems approach and its influence on the curriculum, executive programs, faculty research and student projects. We offer conclusions and lessons learned that may be valuable to small schools wishing to build or strengthen an SCM program.