Computer-based Training
Slides Prepared by
Corey Smith
Overview
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What is Computer-based Training?
Will Computer-based Training work for me?
How does it work?
Advantages and Disadvantages
Cornhill Insurance
Summary
What Is Computer-based
Training (CBT)
 Courseware
• Specific computer software used for
instructional purposes
• CMI vs. CAI
Generic Vs. Authored
 Generic CBT
• Pre-produced software focused on specific
topics
 Authored CBT
• Blank notebook
Will CBT Work for Me?
 Running out of space to store training
manuals?
 Spending too much on distance learning?
 Training staff running low?
 Is quality of training slacking?
 High employee turnover?
What Do I Need?
 What do my employees need to know?
 What do they need to be able to do?
 What existing knowledge do they know
prior to training?
How Does It Work?
 Simulations
 Interactivity
 Testing
 Bookmarks
 Database
 Customization
How Does It Work?
 Simulations
• Customer-employee situations
• Military simulations
• Nuclear meltdowns
How Does It Work?
 Interactivity
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Performance-based not knowledge- based
“Driving a car”
End of section quizzes
Straight Shooter*
* Rothfeder, Jeffery
How Does It Work?
 Testing
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Pretests evaluate existing knowledge
Training focuses on subsequent deficiencies
Self-test questions throughout program
Post-tests
How Does It Work?
 Bookmarks
• Work automatically saved
• Stop and start at will
• Return to exact position for a refresher
How Does It Work?
 Database
• Course management
– Training/retraining dates
• Progress checked
• Standard progress and result reports
– OSHA
How Does It Work?
 Customization
• Generic programs can be tailored
• Video, graphics, etc., can be added at will
Advantages
 Availability
 Pace conformance
 Reduce training costs
 Consistence
Advantages
 Language flexibility
 Cut classroom/storage space
 Fewer staff off floor at once
 Documentation
Disadvantages
 High initial cost
 Computer availability
 Impersonal learning environment
Cornhill Insurance*
 Background
• 160 IT professionals = variation of
technologies and systems
• Continuous updating
• Personal and technical skills required
• Current system too costly
• Pace conformance is necessity
* Insurance Systems Bulletin
Cornhill Insurance*
 Implementation
• CBT Systems agreement entitles Cornhill to
200 courses
• Course units increase 300% (CBT and
Classroom)
• Training budget remains same
• Courses accessed directly from personal
computers
* Insurance Systems Bulletin
Cornhill Insurance*
 Implementation
• Audit report production
• Cost-effective and flexible
• Simple updating
* Insurance Systems Bulletin
Exercise
 Divide into groups
 List company training problems
• Compare to brainstorming questions
 How are problems solved by CBT?
Summary
 Cost effectiveness and flexibility outweigh
disadvantages
 CBT is the wave of the future
• Web-based training
Bibliography
1. Abcede, Angel. “Computer-based Training Provides Powerful Tools”.NPN: National
Petroleum News. V89n12. Nov 1997. P 40-42
2. Meagher, Michele. “Computer-based Training”. Executive: The Management JournalOf
Credit Union Professionals. V29n1. Spring 1989. P 12-14
3. Gordan, Jack. Lee, Chris. “The Future of Computer-based Training”. Training: The Magazine
of Human Resources Development. Sept 1985. P C6 – C28
4. Keckan, Maria. “Computer-based Staff Training: Can You Afford Not To?”. Nursing Homes.
v46n6 Jun 1997. P 101-102
5. Rothfeder, Jeffery. “Computer-based Training”. Forbes. V1n1 (Executive Edge
Supplement).Sept 1998. P 34
6. Schraff, William. “Computer-based Training Enters The Mainstream: CBT Group Shows
Strong Growth As It Makes Its Impact With Big Companies”. Informationweek. N615.
Jan 27, 1997. P 140
Bibliography
7. Lawson, R Scott. “Computer-based Training: Is It The Next Wave?”. Professional Safety.
V44n6 Jun 1999. P 30-33
8. Puttre, Michael. “Computer-based Training Keeps MEs Current”. Mechanical Engineering.
V116n5 May 1994. P 70-74
9. MacLeod, Marilyn. “Improving Education Through Computer-based Training”. Nursing
Management. v25n7. July 1994. P 86-88
10. Schwade, Stephen. “Is It Time To Consider Computer Based Training?”. Personnel
Administrator. v301n2. Feb 1985. P 25-35
11. Heck, William C. “Computer-based Training – The Choice Is Yours”. Personnel
Administrator. Feb 1985. P 39-46
12. Smith, R. Blake. “Computer-based Training Is Designed For Interactive Learning
Experience”. Occupational Health & Safety. V61n12. Dec 1992. P 50,59