High-Tech Training
Blended Learning
Blended learning combines online learning, face-to-face (F2F) instruction and other methods for distributing learning content and instruction. Blended learning courses provide learners with the positive features of both face to face instruction and technology-based methods such as online learning, distance learning or mobile technologies like tablet computers or iPhones. It also minimizes the negative features of each. Blended learning uses the classroom to allow learners to learn together and to discuss and share insights, which helps make the training more meaningful. It has been found to be more effective than face to face instruction for motivating trainees to learn and for teaching declarative knowledge or information about ideas or topics. The most significant issues with blended learning is the fast-changing technology, insufficient management support and commitment to blended learning and a lack of understanding of what blended learning really is and how to implement it.
E-Learning (Web & Non Web)
E-learning programs can be divided into two categories. The computer based that require no internet tools include video (DVD), cable/public television, satellite video conferencing, teleconferencing and whiteboard. The computer based web tools include web browsers, chat rooms, Real Player
http://www.real.com/, QuickTime
http://www.apple.com/quicktime/download/, Windows Media Player
http://windows.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/windows-media-player, broadband video conferencing, WebCT-Blackboard
http://www.webct.com/, LearningSpace
http://learningspacetoolkit.org/, Microsoft NetMeeting
http://www.microsoft.com/en-us/download/details.aspx?id=23745. These computer technologies encompass a wide range of technologies that include computer conferencing, email, group conferencing systems, groupware, and the Internet. E-learning is expanding due to shrinking budgets and decreased interest in travel since Sept. 11, 2001. Meetings and training sessions which depend on airplane flights, hotel reservations and time away from home are being replaced by e-learning. ‖
Distance Learning
Distance learning is used by geographically dispersed companies to provide information about new products, policies or procedures as well as deliver skills training and expert lectures to field locations. Distance learning involves the use of the following capabilities: projection of still, animated and video images; instructor-participant audio discussion; sharing of computer software applications; interactions using instant polling technology; and whiteboard marking tools. Distance learning features two way communications between people and involves two types of technology. The first is teleconferencing which refers to synchronous exchange of audio, video and text between two of more individuals or groups at two or more locations. The second is a virtual classroom which refers to using a computer and the internet to distribute instructor-led training to geographically dispersed employees. The major disadvantage of distance learning is the lack of interaction between the trainer and the audience, technology failures and unprepared trainers.
Social Media
Social Media are online and mobile technology used to create interactive communications allowing the creation and exchange of user-generated content. It includes blogs, wikis and networks such as Facebook, MySpace, and LinkedIn. It also includes micro blogging sites such as Twitter, and shared media such as YouTube. A blog refers to a webpage where an author posts entries and readers often can comment. A blog is effective for training when the content is related to the learning objectives. A wiki refers to a website that allows many users to create, edit and update content and share knowledge. A micro blog refers to software tools such as Twitter that enable communications in short burst of text, links, and multimedia either through stand-alone applications or through online communities or social networks. Shared media refers to audio or video such as YouTube that can be accessed and shared with others. Social networking tools are being used to help employees learn informally and share knowledge both on an as needed basis and as part of formal training courses.
References
Noe, R. A. (2013).
Employee training and development (6th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill
Singh, A. K. (2012). Technology in education and training.
International Journal of Engineering Research and Applications, 2(6), 434-461
