Interruptions have been reported among the most common reasons why learners have trouble completing online training (Baldwin-Evans, 2004). This paper presents a conceptual framework developed from an internet-based survey that was used to examine the occurrence of different interruptions during online training and their effects on learning.
Interruptions have been reported among the most common reasons why learners have trouble completing online training (Baldwin-Evans, 2004). Yet, research is lacking in identifying what types of interruptions learners experience during online training and what interruption characteristics create learning and performance difficulties for learners. This paper presents a conceptual framework that advances understanding of the different types of interruptions that can occur during online training and their effects on learning. Additionally, the conceptual framework was used to develop an internet-based survey that was distributed to individuals who had experienced interruptions during online training. Data from the survey was used to examine the occurrence of different interruptions during online training and to refine the conceptual framework. The implications of the framework for studying the effects of interruptions during online training, and learner strategies for managing these interruptions, are discussed.