Computer-based training (CBT) and web-based training (WBT)
deliver self-paced instruction in a highly
engaging fashion. Both are particularly suited to the presentation of:
- visual information, such as maps, diagrams, illustrations, and animations
- information in audio format (e.g., sounds used in diagnosing a condition)
- narrated demonstrations
- interactivity, where the learner can answer questions or enter information
and receive immediate feedback on their response
- simulations, where learners can carry out procedures and receive
full “real-world” sensory feedback
In addition to the benefits associated with self-paced
instruction in general, CBT
and WBT solutions offer:
- richer, more effective illustrations of complex concepts
- “real-world” demonstrations of complex or demanding
processes
- simulation of risky situations or procedures, allowing learners
to safely practice a task before they enter into “live”
training
- enhanced skills mastery through repeated practice and feedback
- greater accommodation of different cognitive styles (e.g., visual,
auditory, kinesthetic)
- student-tracking capabilities, where management software automatically
records student progress, performance, and evaluation results
- cost-effectiveness, where the higher cost of initial development
is offset by the savings in delivery costs and the returns on better
employee performance
Web-based training offers several additional benefits:
- programming requirements are simpler
- content is more easily updated on the web
- small “update” lessons can be quickly developed and
deployed in simple HTML
- learners have access to training courses at any time, from any computer,
and from any location
- access to training content can be controlled through existing log-on
procedures
- multimedia components can be easily integrated into the content,
given adequate bandwidth
- forms and simple e-mail links can be used to collect user feedback
and facilitate communication between peers and other human resources
- alternate delivery strategies (such as FTP
download sites, electronic whiteboarding, webcasting, custom
newsgroups, and chat rooms or mailing lists) can complement the core
WBT
Organizations should consider using CBT
or WBT when:
- task performance must be consistent across the enterprise
- performance criteria are clear-cut and straightforward
- successful performance can be measured through standardized performance
measures
- course content is relatively stable
- course content is best presented through the use of multimedia
- course material can be presented in small segments
- learners have varying needs (e.g., current knowledge and skills,
learning rates, and cognitive styles)
- learners are geographically distributed
- learners will take the training on an as-and-when-needed basis
- learners will need significant repetition, practice and feedback
to achieve competency
- learner performance must be tracked (e.g., for certification purposes)
- learners benefit from repeating training segments as refreshers
before performing unfamiliar or infrequent tasks
CBT
is particularly well-suited for demanding multimedia training solutions,
such as simulations or highly interactive courseware, which require
significant computer processing power.
BrainWave Solutions Inc. has years of experience in the research,
design, and development of a variety of web-based training solutions,
including interactive courses designed for delivery across a nation-wide
corporate intranet.
Our core and associate staff have the qualifications and
experience to create successful online training solutions using methods
such as e-mail, asynchronous forums and listservs, static and interactive
web pages, web-enabled PDF
files, synchronous chat rooms, online classrooms, and document and screen
sharing.
We are fully familiar with the particular demands and
constraints of developing internet-based training, information, and
interactive support systems for both individual and group learning approaches.
Before recommending an electronic performance solution
for your organization, BrainWave takes into consideration:
- the size and diversity of the training audience
- the nature of the training requirement
- available budget and timeline
- existing employee computer and/or Internet proficiency levels
- your hardware, networking, and telecommunications infrastructure
Tell more more about your overall client portfolio...
Tell me more about your track record in CBT design and development...
Tell me more about your track record in WBT design and development...
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