G063 – Software-based Training

Learning Objectives: discuss the use of software-based training methods of training: online training Computer Based Training (CBT) video-conferencing advantages & disadvantages of software-based training

The Need for Training any change will result in some training need: so that staff are familiar with new methods and procedures key employees can be trained used in turn to train others in a pyramid approach may follow the hierarchical structure of the organisation each person training those immediately below them in the pyramid

Providing Training Traditionally training can be provided in a variety of ways: manuals or step-through guides traditional format formal courses possibly using slide-show software books

Use of Computers in training online training Computer Based Training (CBT) video-conferencing

Online training usually web-based, pre-recorded material to show users how to complete a task. can include a combination of multimedia elements sound can be used to read out instructions images can be incorporated video used to show users how to complete tasks

Online training: Advantages tutorials are available anywhere & at any time trainees can work at their own pace multimedia elements can be used videos can help to motivate some learners

Online training: Disadvantages no access to a tutor to ask questions if trainee get stuck need a computer & (high bandwidth) Internet access may not be available or develop technical problems multimedia training materials take time to produce tutorials may not be up-to-date may find delivery style monotonous may not complete training

Computer Based Training using the computer to assist with training - ‘now do this’ trainee then performs task individualised logon individual progress can be recorded system will remember where the trainee had got to last time software monitors progress of the trainee quizzes/tasks built in that enable the user to interact ‘improve by doing’ feedback given to the trainee trainee told whether they have answered questions correctly trainee can see where their strengths and weaknesses are

Computer Based Training feedback to the tutor tutor can monitor the progress that each trainee is making. tutor can also identify areas which trainees are finding difficult target setting system can create a learning plan for the trainee to follow

CBT: advantages can return to the place where they left off last time saves time trying to work out how far they had progressed. can monitor their own progress see where strengths & weaknesses are receive feedback as to how well they are doing can motivate them to continue learning trainee can work at own pace not held up by slower members of a class not left behind when they find tasks more difficult users often happier to have errors spotted and corrected by a computer less embarrassed about making mistakes

CBT: disadvantages need to be motivated to succeed not always a tutor to monitor progress not possible to ask tutor questions if having difficulty training methods monotonous for auditory learners? concern that progress is being monitored automatically ‘big brother’?

Video-conferencing see ‘video-conferencing’ presentation

Advantages of Video-conferencing trainees can gain access to expert tutors even if the tutor is located a long distance away specialist training - not available in any other form trainees can ask questions trainees do not need to travel to find a tutor saves time and money groups of learners can collaborate to receive learning at the same time by one tutor can reduce the cost of lessons

Disadvantages of Video-conferencing cost equipment is required & can be expensive (for high quality) high bandwidth Internet is required otherwise ‘jerky’ video or unsynchronized audio & video timing trainer needs to be present at the time of the training if there are several trainees then it can be difficult for the tutor to manage if several trainees ask questions at the same time