Education & Distance Learning Enthusiasts- These virtual teachers don't get any apples - computer-based training

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These virtual teachers don't get any apples - computer-based training - Feature Report

Computer Dealer News - January 27, 1997

Resellers can provide corporate executives with just the right tools to learn at their own pace

Once considered substantially inferior to instructor-led delivery, self-paced learning is making inroads in the software training industry.

Its increasing popularity is tied to the new, higher-quality options available in the marketplace - primarily multimedia products.

Most organizations view self-paced training as learning reinforcement that supplement instructor-led programs. Instructor-led training still maintains its position as king of the delivery formats, but its 1996 usage is expected to drop from 94 to 88 per cent based on recent figures from Framingham, MA-based International Data Corp.

Stepping up to the plate are two types of self-paced delivery: technology-based and Internet-based. The most dramatic growth will come from technology-based training, which includes computer-based training and multimedia products. IDC projects use of technology-based training in Canada will grow this year from three to 6.5 per cent.

This can be attributed to the emergence of slick and sexy multimedia offerings. Many new multimedia products integrate sound, graphics, text and animation for truly interactive training. Now that quality offerings are available, organizations consider them viable alternatives to instructor-led delivery.

Internet training, also known as distance learning, is a new entry in the self-paced software training market. Current offerings on the Internet include virtual classrooms and computer-based training. While Internet training currently represents a negligible piece of the market, dramatic growth is expected for this medium.

Both types of self-paced training are appealing alternatives to classroom learning for a number of reasons. Some people prefer to learn alone so they can move at their own rate.

Additionally, many self-paced products provide a good way for far-flung organizations to provide training to small field offices.

For example, if a company has just one individual working in a remote office, instructor-led training may not be a realistic option. Yet the company can easily ship a multimedia course out to that individual. Pricing is also appealing as it is typically lower than instructor-led.

Classroom training, however, still has significant advantages over today's self-paced options. Most people prefer and respond better to instructor-led training than any other format. Delivery is also simple. A classroom, an instructor and standard computers are the only requirements. The really good self-paced products, however, require additional systems like CD-ROM and Internet access. Most importantly, nothing can replace the human element and live interaction that an instructor provides.

Smart organizations use both formats. Classroom training remains the best option for handling the bulk of requirements.

Successful companies augment these instructor-led programs with self-paced offerings for employees who either prefer to learn on their own or are isolated and must learn on their own.

To create an optimal program, each organization should examine their specific requirements and mix delivery methods accordingly. Follow the law of successful CIOs and you won't go wrong - embrace new products when they can make a positive impact on your organization.

Sondra Kiss is managing director at Toronto-based ExecuTrain of Canada.

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