4a Software based training methods

4a Software based training methods

1. Computer Based Training (CBT)

   • Methods that use software to train people. Can be used to trading for computer based or non-computer based tasks.
   • Features
     • Interative Quizzes
     • Logon with user ID and password
     • Pre-assessment to see what person already knows
       • O- Don't have to complete modules they already know.
     • Target and assignment setting
       • O- User/ Tutor can define the learning path
   • Advantages
     • O- Software can track individual's progress
     • O-Feedback sent to trainee and tutor
       • O- Can return to the place they stopped the training
       • O- Can find strengths and weaknesses
     • O- Trainees can work at own pace, wherever the software is
     • O- Tutor doesn't need to plan learning material and assessments are automatically marked
       • X- Tutor may have to rely on inadequate material
       • X- Certain assessments can't be marked by computers
   • Examples
     • E.g practicing driving test theory
     • First aid emergency stimulation
     • Health and safety
     • Teacher/Counselor training
       • Child protection training

2. Online Tutorials

   • Step by step articles usually numbered so user can follow order
     • Breaks down large task into smaller, easier tasks
   • Usually include multi-media elements to show users how to complete a task
     • E.G. Video tutorials
     • E.G pictures such as screenshots or diagrams
   • Advantages
     • O- Multimedia elements can give more detailed explanations and demonstrate task
     • O- Videos can be more stimulating than plane text and images
     • O- Can pause video or stop tutorial and work at own pace
     • O- Can be done in user's time
   • Disadvantages
     • X- Need internet/ computer
     • X- Trainees need to be motivated with no tutor
     • X- May not have access to tutor when needed
     • X- Style of CBT may be monotonous
     • X- May have to go through a whole module/video/list just to learn one thing => Frustration
     • X- Need IT skills
     • X- Multi-media tutorials take a long time to produce so may become out-of-date soon after being published
     • X- Not all skills can be learnt online. Learners need additional support from elsewhere.
     • X- Trainees may skip through material and not learn deeply.

3. Video conferencing

   • Used to connect teachers and students remote from each other through video and audio.
   • Needs equipment such as camera, microphone, screen and speakers.
   • Advantages
     • O-Can gain access of expert international tutors
     • O- Groups of learners can collaborate together/ spilt cost of equipment
     • O- No travel costs
     • O- Tutors can find audience of students interested in a niche subject due to worldwide costumer-base
   • Disadvantages
     • X- Requires a high bandwidth for real-time experience
     • X- Equipment may be expensive and maybe prone to errors
     • X- May be difficult for tutor to video conference multiple trainees and answer all questions
     • X- Quality of video and audio my make it difficult to see diagrams on board or hear people not close to the microphone.