slides 1-2-3-4-5-6-7-8-9-10-11-12-13-14-15-16-17-18-19-20-21-22-23-24-25-26-27-28-29 - Virtual U - Prasena

Introduction
Computer Based Training (CBT) is self paced learning using a computer package to present the information, rather than a person. There are a variety of delivery methods: over Intranet or Internet, CD, installed on hard drive, etc. There are also a variety of levels of interaction and types of material presented from reading text on the screen and click for the next page to graphics, video, animation, interaction, simulations, tests, quizzes and so on.
History
In February 1998, an initial evaluation of commercially available CBT for technical subjects was carried out. Two companies, SmartForce (then CBT Systems) and NETg, came to OUCS to give presentations. As a result of the evaluation, it was determined that SmartForce product was preferred. It used graphics, animation, clearly laid out screens with glossary terms, note taking, links to further information, interactive sections, simulations and several ways of testing including discovery questions, a feature the others lacked. It did not include video or sound. This was seen as a positive attribute as it enabled the user to move at their own pace without having to wait for material to be presented.
In June 1998, I presented an ITSS Seminar entitled Accreditation and Certification at which using CBT as cheaper way to train people in technical topics was proposed and received strong support. A similar workshop was run at the 1998 ITSS Conference, and again the ideas proved popular. See also the minutes of ITSSG 8 June 1998 and minutes of ITTEG 19 June 1998.
In 1999, funding was requested for IT Support Staff training, including a training budget, part of which would have been used to purchase CBT. This was turned down.
In mid 1999, Dave Rischmiller was looking for a means of training the Network Systems Management Service staff and was the driving force behind OUCS purchasing a single user licence for a number of Novell Netware and Microsoft NT titles from SmartForce.
The licence was for a single user, however, the CBT was delivered on four CDs and SmartForce agreed that it would be acceptable to have one user per CD at any one time. A pilot project was designed up to try to get the best value for money from this training and to evaluate its usefulness