Admission to the Program - The Impact of Cognitive Theory on Human and Computer Development - page 59

that comes close to the expected goal will help one to carry on through setbacks and unpre-
dicted difficulties.
Bandura (1977) discussed specificity in goal setting as an impetus for success in taking
action. The use of clearly defined goals helps to predict performance by indicating the type
and amount of effort required to meet a goal and clear signs of personal accomplishment
result in self-satisfaction and thus momentum for future-like behavior (Bandura 1977).
Bandura (1977) noted when intentions are not specific, little foundation exists to direct or
evaluate the anticipated performance.
Sprague, Armstrong, and Branen (2006) identified goal setting as a strategic element of
best practices in computer study self-management. Social cognitive theory is also applic-
able in computer science study self-care practice in that the process includes self-control,
outcome of value to the participant, a degree of self-efficacy, positive reinforcement, and
maximal effort for goal achievement. As in the current Application project, Sprague et al.
advocated goal setting as a cooperative task for the participants and training care providers.
Participants in the study of Sprague et al. were not successful when goals were too ambi-
tious or when barriers to goal attainment were not identified. As indicated in the Breadth
and Depth sections of this topic, making a connection between current actions and future
outcomes enables individuals to seek personal control over their lives.
Assessment of Intention
After students and coordinators or scholar practitioners collaboratively set up goals, the
students completed a worksheet regarding the importance, intention, level of confidence,
possible supports, and potential barriers to accomplishing the goals on a scale of 1 to 5. As
noted in the Depth section and consistent with the constructs of the theory of planned per-
formance, three indicators serve to direct human actions: (a) principles regarding outcomes
of the actions, (b) values and attitudes of others, and (c) ideas about possible issues that
may help promote or inhibit the actions (Ajzen 2002, p. 107). Consistent with the theory
of planned performance, the indicators of human performance also serve to predict inten-
tion, motivation, and behavior. Ajzen maintained action occurs only if the force of intention
and strength of motivation for action are stable and firm. In the interview, the coordinat-
ors noted the students' level of confidence and intention, as well as probable supports and
likely barriers for revalidation during follow-up.