The answer is yes.

Instead of improving the skill through use and skill percentages, I'd rather see a variable sliding scale hidden to the player based on hours.

That is, a character with 80 hours using barrier has a range of garnering 50%-75% of his barrier wand. He just isn't learned enough to pull the full effect of the spell from the wand and onto himself. Conversely, a mage with 320 hours might have a range of 85%-100%. He is well-adjusted to zapping and excising the wand's power.

Tweak the scale however would best benefit game balance and the promotion of longevity. But the important thing would be in keeping the %s hidden. All I know as a player or opponent is 'Barrier up!'.

Oh, this would apply to shield, aura, and barrier.