Training diagnostic problem-solving competencies by a computer-based training

Computer based trainings (CBT) are expected to be especially helpful to train adequate strategies of diagnostic problem solving. In the presentation the development of a CBT is described which trains diagnostic strategies through video clips that give strategic instructions by cognitive modeling the strategic behavior. The CBT design is based on constructivist instructional theories especially the Cognitive Apprenticeship approach. The effects of the cognitive modeling instructions were evaluated in a quasi-experimental training study. Performance indicators of diagnostic problem solving behavior was measured in diagnostic tasks at different transfer levels. It could be shown that the instruction of diagnostic strategies through cognitive modeling is only partially successful. Therefore it is planned to implement additional instructional elements for the training of diagnostic strategies.