COMPARING FEEDBACK METHODS AFTER TESTING

Studied the effects of 2 methods of communicating test results after 56 undergraduates classified as overachievers, predictable achievers, and underachievers had taken a test of mental ability. Relaxation rates, based on changes in skin conductance, were measured while 28 received feedback via a programed manual and the other 28 received feedback during interviews with counselors. Measures of the accuracy of self-estimation were obtained before and after feedback. Compared with Ss who used the programed manual, Ss who received feedback from counselors demonstrated a greater rate of relaxation, although the accuracy of their self-estimations did not improve as much. Relaxation rates of Ss with low or discrepant scores were not different from those with high or predictable scores. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2006 APA, all rights reserved). © 1969 American Psychological Association.