Indeed, sometimes knowledge does not help: A replication study

Abstract

In an earlier study we found that intermediate experts in the domain of economics did not surpass novices in complex learning and knowledge application with a computer-based business simulation. In the present study, it was investigated whether these contra-intuitive findings can be replicated. In order to scrutinize the reasons which led to these findings, some parameters of the learning environment were changed. The duration of the exploration phase and of the problem-solving phase as well as the complexity of the situations were increased, motivation and acquired declarative knowledge were assessed. In view of mastering recurring demands and the functionality of mental models, no differences were found between a group of novices (15 students of humanities with a supplementary training in economics) and a group of intermediate experts (13 advanced students of economics). The findings of the original study were replicated, motivation had no effect on the result. In terms of declarative knowledge, the novices turned out to be even better.