G063 – Software-based Training

Learning Objectives: discuss the use of software-based training −methods of training: online trainingonline training Computer Based Training (CBT)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 on-line tutorials

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

Online training often supplied with the software (web-based/CDROM) can include a combination of multimedia elements –to show users how to complete a task. –text, images, sound, animations, video sound can be used to read out instructions –or give feedback & guidance images can be incorporated –to show an item, its components –screenshots (for learning software) video used to show users how to complete tasks

Online training: Advantages multimedia elements can be used –pictures, animations, sounds and videos –to give more detailed explanations when demonstrating tasks videos can help to motivate some learners –more stimulating than just text and images trainees can work at their own pace –not held up or left behind tutorials are available anywhere & at any time –learners have flexibility about when and where to learn people are often happier to have errors spotted and corrected by a computer –less embarrassed about making mistakes

Online training: disadvantages no access to a tutor –to ask questions if trainee get stuck –trainees need to be self-motivated need a computer & Internet access –may not be available or develop technical problems may find delivery style monotonous multimedia materials take time to produce –tutorials may not be up-to-date concern that progress is being monitored automatically –‘big brother’?

Computer Based Training individualised logon –each trainee has a user ID and password –individual progress can be recorded –system will remember where the trainee had got to last time quizzes can be built that enable the user to interact –trainee becomes involved by having to answer questions not just presented with information, feedback to the trainee –trainee told whether they have answered questions correctly –trainee made to repeat a training module if not enough questions are answered correctly. –the 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 monitor how long each trainee is spending on the software –how many marks each trainee gets for each section –which trainees have completed particular training modules. –tutor can also identify areas which trainees are finding difficult so that extra teaching can be delivered on that topic area. target setting –trainee sets targets to achieve –system can create a learning plan for the trainee to follow assignment setting –tutor can set an assignment to a group of trainees. –trainees will then be notified of the assignment and the deadline. –completed assignments returned to the tutor –system may automatically mark the assignment

CBT: advantages

CBT: disadvantages

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 specialised training can be provided –world-wide customer base for training by video conference 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 high bandwidth is required –or ‘jerky’ video or unsynchronized audio & video quality of video conferences can be variable –can be difficult to hear people who are not close to the microphone. if there are several trainees then it can be difficult for the tutor to manage –if several trainees ask questions at the same time