explain how learning curve theory applied to the simulation module 1 and 2 course hero

by Dr. Cary Blanda V 5 min read

What is the learning curve theory?

The learning curve theory is a way to understand the improved performance of an employee or investment over time. The idea is that the more an employee does something, the better they will get at it, which translates to lower cost and higher output in the long term.

What is the S-curve model?

Increasing-Decreasing Return Learning Curve (the S-curve) This model is the most commonly cited learning curve and is known as the “ S-curve ” model. It measures an individual who is new to a task. The bottom of the curve indicates slow learning as the learner works to master the skills required and takes more time to do so.

What does the first stage of the learning curve indicate?

The beginning of the curve indicates that learning is initially slow. The second stage of the curve shows an increase, which indicates that the learner is becoming proficient in the skill. The third stage of the curve indicates that the learner is plateauing in his proficiency once the learner feels he has mastered the skill.

What is the slope of the learning curve?

The slope in this type of learning curve will be shallow at first, followed by a steep drop off. This suggests that the task takes a long time to learn, but once learned, employees can quickly reach a point of high efficiency.

Who created the learning curve?

This is the basis for the learning curve formula, the “ Cumulative Average Model ” (or “Wright’s Model”), which was described by T.P. Wright in 1936 in his work " Factors Affecting the Cost of Airplanes ", after realizing that the cost of aircraft production decreased with the increase in production performance.

Why is the learning curve used?

As workers produce more product, the per-unit cost will often decrease. The learning curve can be used to predict potential costs when production tasks change. For example, when the pricing of a new product is being determined, labor costs are factored in.

What does the bottom of the curve mean?

The bottom of the curve indicates slow learning as the learner works to master the skills required and takes more time to do so. The latter half of the curve indicates that the learner now takes less time to complete the task as they have become proficient in the skills required.

What is microlearning theory?

The modern Microlearning theory is based on Ebbinghaus memory studies. Nowadays it helps us understand when and why we forget certain information and how we can tackle this. Later, Arthur Bills described the learning curve in his work “ General experimental psychology ” (Bills, Arthur Gilbert, in 1934, page 192).

Why is the learning curve applied to surgeons?

Because a surgeon is essentially practicing the same skill over and over whenever that procedure is done, the learning curve can be applied to show individual learning and performance over time.

What does the fourth stage of the curve mean?

The fourth stage of the curve represents that the learner is actually still improving the skill. The last stage of the curve represents the point at which the skill becomes automatic, muscle memory for the learner, often termed “ over learning ”.

Why is learning curve important?

Using a learning curve can help a business to improve the performance and productivity of their workforce and reduce costs. When used to track or predict performance, it can provide psychological motivation and strategic planning: Performance improvement cannot happen on its own and is connected with learning.

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