First of all because of the ever existing gap between knowledge and skills you gather at school and that what you need in business. To close this gap companies offer in-house or external trainings and courses to further develop employee knowledge and skills.

Another reason why learning is important is the fact that continuously new methods, tools, technology and other changes affect our work environment. Learning is therefore also a means to keep pace with all these changes.

… And E-learning is a logical next move.

We all value the importance of learning, but when a company’s results is under pressure, spending on learning and trainings are normally the first to be cut.

And this is a good reason to search for efficiency in the learning business. E-learning could then be very well the answer; it will save on transport costs and on time. Both are valuable incentives to change the learning environment from a traditional training centre with teachers, to a online situation where the course (material) is managed virtually through the internet (web based learning).

The acceptance of internet as a mature communication medium was a previous requirement for the success of e-learning. Attending an online course is a much more solitary operation and that is not acceptable by everyone. Some people favour a face to face contact as a learning environment.

Also, the educational material is different in an e-learning environment. It is not possible nor enough to merely copy a teachers syllabus to a series of WebPages and scroll your mouse. In the end, the question about what is cheaper is not easy to make, but the time saving by less travel cost will remain.

© 2006 Hans Bool

About the Author:
Hans Bool is the founder of Astor White (http://www.astorwhite.com/) a traditional management consulting company that offers online management tools. Have a look at some of our free management tools (http://www.astorwhite.com/en/service_online_statistics.php)
Tag: E-learning Rise

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Moreover, Ant Colony systems present the interesting property of exhibiting emergent behaviour that allow individuals to benefit from the dynamic experience acquired by the collectivity, which means, in pedagogic terms that a student could benefit from the pedagogic lessons drawn out of his peers’ successes and failures.

The implementation of these algorithms yields results that go beyond the requirements of the Paraschool company which will soon be experimenting in real size the automatic dynamic optimisation of the pedagogic graph (their set of interconnected lessons and exercises) implemented by their software. This paper successively presents a concise description of human-learning concepts and their software implementation, a short description of the technical implementation of the Ant-Colony based optimisation algorithm and a discussion on the use of various selection operators. A set of experiments is then conducted, showing that erroneous arc probabilities can be automatically corrected by the system.

II. ELEMENTS ON THE PHILOSOPHY OF LEARNING

The main concepts of teaching and learning used nowadays are still very old. The two main currents are Constructivism, that was elaborated by Kant and Behaviourism: a theory that came from Pavlov’s experiments.

A. Constructivism

In 1781, Kant tried to synthesize rationalist and empiricist viewpoints. Kant sees the mind as an active agent, that organizes and coordinates experiences. Along these lines, Piaget states that knowledge is not simply “acquired,” by children bit by bit, but constructed into coherent, robust frameworks called “knowledge structures.” Children are not passive absorbers of experience and information, but active theory builders. Papert, a mathematician, and one of the early pioneers of Artificial Intelligence (he founded the Artificial Intelligence Laboratory at MIT), worked with Piaget at the University of Geneva

IV. IMPLEMENTATION OF THE ANT COLONY:

ALGORITHMIC OVERVIEW

All nodes (html pages) of the new Paraschool software now contain a new ACO-powered NEXT button that leads the user along an arc chosen by a selection algorithm (see section V), based on the probability associated with the arc. This probability is computed by taking several factors into account in the design of a weighted fitness function described in the next section. These factors are the following and play at both the individual and collective levels:

A. Pedagogic Weights: W

This pedagogical weight is the main value of each arc. It is implemented as a static (i.e. “global”) variable (W), accessible to all ants. (W) is set by the Paraschool teachers and reflects the relative importance of the arcs that come out of a particular node. In other words, the teachers encourage the students to go toward such or such exercise after such or such lesson by giving the corresponding arc a higher weight. This valuation of the graph describes the pedagogic structure that will be optimized by the ACO algorithm

B. Pheromones: S and F

There are two kinds of pheromones that can be released on arcs to reflect students’ activity:

S: success pheromone. This floating point value is incremented by ants/students on the adequate incoming arcs when they are successful in completing the corresponding exercise.

F: failure pheromone. This last value is S’s counterpart for failure. These pheromones are released not only on the arc that led the ant to that node but also on previous ones in the ant’s history with decreasing amplitude.

This is meant to reflect the fact that the outcome of a particular node (exercise) is influenced by all the nodes (lessons, exercises) the ant went through before but with an influence that, of course, diminishes with time. For obvious pragmatical reasons, this “back propagation” of pheromone release is limited in scope (atypical value of 4 has been agreed upon). To illustrate this, let us consider an ant that went through nodes A,B,C,D,E,F and that reaches node G. When it validates node G with success, 1 unit of success pheromone is dropped on arc (F,G), 1/2 unit on arc (E,F), 1/3 of a unit on arc (D,E) and 1/4 on arc (C,D). In addition, to allow for dynamic adaptability of these pheromone amounts (S and F), evaporation is performed on a regular basis, usually every day, by reducing S and F in a given proportion _ typically around 0.999.

CONCLUSIONS AND PERSPECTIVE

Paraschool wanted a smart automatic system that could adapt to different users without manual intervention, which would be totally unrealistic to envisage on 10000 students. The ant-based system described in this paper not only offers such automatic features by gradually modifying pedagogic paths suggested by teachers using collective experience and by making the structure individual-specific thanks to variables such as H but also comes up with emergent informations that can be used as a refined auditing tool to help the pedagogical team identify the strengths and weaknesses of the software and pedagogic material.

From a more theoretical standpoint, this work can be seen as a new take on Interactive Evolutionary Computation where the solution to a problem is gradually constructed and modified by multiple interacting entities with different and possibly opposite goals. A creative and robust compromise can be reached that balances all the influences and constraints, which allows all participating entities to benefit from an emergent culture and to enhance their decision making processes accordingly. This suggest a great deal of new and exciting applications in the field of Collective Cognition Modelling and Collective Evolutionary Design.

kadavulai@yahoo.co.uk

Balamurugan Balusamy is currently working as a lecturer in school of computing sciences in vellore institute of technology (vit), Vellore, India.

• As an additional responsibility,working also as Project Leader in VIT, guiding more than 30 students all over India in their project activities.

• Worked as programmer in SISI at Madurai & Sivakasi (From 2002 to 2003)

• Worked as Lecturer in Syed Ammal Engineering College, Ramnad.

• 1 year Experience in Scientific Journal Production Copyediting and Composition

• Worked in LAN/WAN administration, server configuration, hardware/software: installation, troubleshooting/repair.

About the Author:
Balamurugan Balusamy is currently working as a lecturer in school of computing sciences in vellore institute of technology (vit), Vellore, India.

Tag: Ant Colonisation Optimization

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Advanced Web-based Training Strategies: Unlocking Instructionally Sound Online Learning by Saul Carliner, Margaret Driscoll (2005). ISBN: 0787969796

Beyond E-Learning: Approaches and Technologies to Enhance Organizational Knowledge, Learning, and Performance by Marc J. Rosenberg, John Larson, and David Holcombe (2005).  ISBN: 0787977578

Blended Learning Book: Best Practices, Proven Methodologies, and Lessons Learned by Josh Bersin (2004).  ISBN: 0787972967

Creating Successful e-Learning: A Rapid System For Getting It Right First Time, Every Time by Michael W. Allen (2006).  ISBN: 0787983004

E-Learning: Strategies for Delivering Knowledge in the Digital Age by Marc J. Rosenberg (2000).  ISBN: 0071362681

Lessons in Learning, e-Learning, and Training: Perspectives and Guidance for the Enlightened Trainer by Roger C. Schank (2005).  ISBN: 0787976660

Making Sense of Online Learning: A Guide for Beginners and the Truly Skeptical
by Patti Shank and Amy Sitze (2004).  ISBN: 0787969826

Online Learning Idea Book: 95 Proven Ways to Enhance Technology-Based and Blended Learning by Patti Shank (2007).  ISBN: 0787981680

The Synchronous Trainer’s Survival Guide: Facilitating Successful Live and Online Courses, Meetings, and Events by Jennifer Hofmann(2003).  ISBN: 0787969435

Web-Based Learning Theory, Research, and Practice Edited by Harold O’Neil and Ray S. Perez (2006).  ISBN: 0805851003

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Correspondence Schools have converted their mail and send curriculum into a high-tech e-learning system. More colleges and universities consider distance learning a vital mix of their academic requirements. Theses university have increased their enrollment and services to the community without increasing staff loads by offering distance learning classes.

The Internet has given instructional designers the tools to created an e-learning system that utilizes these high technology systems to deliver high quality and multi-dimensional information through several media. The technology and instruction design systems deliver a complete education for individuals. who are never required to step foot into a “real” classroom. There is a virtual classroom where the student visits to retrieve information, class assignments and chat withother students.

In a true distance learning setting, students are not physically on site. The exchange of information is conducted through electronic media. Some distance education courses are considered blended if a student is required to physically attend any brick and mortar location for examinations or introductory meeting.

Universities are able to increase academic classes available to students, business, and industry by providing quality programs with innovative delivery.

So the combination of correspondence schools and distant learning institutions have melded into one industry. The technology to achieve distance learning may include:

*Voice-centered technology

CD or MP3 recordings or Webcasts

*Video technology

instructional videos, DVDs, and interactive

*Videoconferencing

Using video and audio signals to link participants at different and remote locations over the Internet

or corporate intranet.

Distance learning is sometimes more effective than traditional learning environments. Student can access information in real time and respond to on-line questions. There is less pressure for the student. If the student desires one-on-one interaction., these tools are available. Student can find additional support online. Time flexibility is the major advantage of distance learning.

Studies indicate that distance learning can be as effective as the traditional format when the methods are appropriate to the teaching tasks, there is student-teacher interaction, and the teachers provide students with appropriate and timely feedback.

Distance learning has transformed the traditional idea of higher education. The ability to get a complete education from the comfort Of your home appeals to a vast majority of the population. Distance learning is less expensive than traditional school enrollment. Also students are not hampered by their location.

Distance learning can prevail where traditional education cannot. Scheduling of classes is almost completely automated. Classes can be taken at the convenience of the student. Distance learning offers courses in almost every discipline. E-learning has been called the greatest educational democracy because it provides a method For getting an education to everyone

High school students are able to take classes on line to meet graduation requirements. Workers can take classes on their own time to meet minimum job requirement for promotions.

Distance learning has changed the landscape of the educational environment in a positive way. Distance learning has created the virtual classroom where everyone has the opportunity to meet their educational goals.

About the Author:
For more helpful information on how to quickly and easily enroll in distance learning classes please visit Guide-To-Distance-Learning.info located at http://www.guide-to-distance-learning.info where you will find a wealth of free information on online high schools, online college costs, financial aid and online MBA degrees.
Tag: Online degree
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Learning Resources Network (LERN), an international nonprofit organization that serves institutions and businesses that provide online learning, has developed a program that enables online faculty members and trainers to earn the Certified Online Instructor (COI) designation.  This certification was designed to enable those who teach in an e-learning environment to validate and be recognized for their skills in online learning. 

Those who teach online classes in any setting are eligible to sit for COI certification.  In order to earn the COI designation, trainers must have taught at least two online courses, be evaluated by their own students, pass a certification exam, and have at least one of their courses critiqued by a LERN trainer.  Additionally, COI candidates must complete a series of three LERN courses:  Teaching Online, Designing Online Instruction, and Building Learning Communities in Cyberspace. 

Those who earn the designation of COI will receive a certificate of completion for framing, authority to use the initials COI, a listing on the LERN website, a special COI ribbon to wear at LERN conferences, and a press release announcing credentialing.  To learn more about how you can become a Certified Online Instructor, click here.

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Distance learning online provides students with ease of access. More commonly, online schools are typically economical and offer comprehensive course studies and degree programs much like conventional academic institutions.

Mind you that distance learning online is not for the faint of heart. Individuals who are contemplating enrollment should consider a few principle matters – first, if you are serious about attaining your online degree or course, you must realize that you will still have to manage your time to get the best benefit from your educational course. Are you self-motivated? While distance learning online schools do offer the handiness of being available 24/7, ultimately you will still have to dedicate a fair amount of your time to your studies; usually about 12-15 per week.

Next comes balancing your coursework with personal responsibility: If you’re going to enroll in a distance learning online course of study, you will need to set a schedule for yourself so that you can fulfill your own obligations and still commit yourself to your online classes. Study time should be free from distractions and should be a productive environment for learning. If you can’t seem to free yourself from interruptions at home, perhaps a nearby library may be sufficient.

And finally, you should be prepared to become interactive with your online instructors and fellow classmates. This is important as it allows you to become personable not only with your teacher, but to share views and fact-finding opportunities with your virtual social group as well.

Now that you have a basic guideline into what is expected of you in a distance learning online course, the next hurdle is finding the appropriate online school that will meet your individual needs. Obviously, if you are seeking online certificate programs, you will want to review schools that offer these courses. The same applies to those who are seeking online degree programs. Be certain to review curriculums and determine whether or not online support will be provided to you. (Note: Most quality online schools will extend support to their students during the e-learning course.)

Furthermore, check to see if the distance learning online program is accredited. In addition to reviewing student testimonies, verify whether or not financial aid programs are offered; if so, determine if you are eligible. Also, some online degree programs do require prerequisites prior to acceptance; do you meet the qualifications?

In general, distance learning online schools can be a constructive and convenient means to acquiring a fulfilling education (and online degree). Is it right for you? That depends on how motivated you are in gaining the professional and personal success you feel you deserve.

If you are thinking about enrolling in a Distance Learning Online School(http://www.schoolsgalore.com/categories/4/distance_learning_online_schools.html) to attain your online degree, certificate or continuing education, feel free to visit the Distance Learning Directory at SchoolsGalore.com for more information.

©09/07/2006 – Distance Learning Online – Tips for Prospective Students By C. Bailey-Lloyd in association with Media Positive Communications, Inc., Managing Organization for SchoolsGalore.com

Notice to Publishers: Please feel free to use this article in your Ezine or on your Website; however, ALL links must remain intact and active.

About the Author:
C. Bailey-Lloyd is the Public Relations Director & Writer for SchoolsGalore.com — Your source of information for Online Degrees (http://www.schoolsgalore.com/categories/4/online_degrees.html); Online Courses (http://www.schoolsgalore.com/categories/4/online_courses.html); and other Online Schools.
Tag: Distance learning online
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In order to teach children professionally, a degree in early childhood education is required. Potential early childhood educators can get their degrees from accredited colleges or universities, or even through distance education or Internet education. An early childhood education online degree is just as valid as that received through a non-virtual educational institute.

If someone is thinking about becoming an early childhood educator, he or she can learn more about what the job involves by reading about early childhood education online. If this career choice appeals to the individual, the next step is to choose an educational institute from which to receive a degree. Depending on the individual, going to an actual college or university may be a better choice than pursuing an online education.

The Internet serves as a wonderful resource for communication, entertainment, and education. Because it is so widely used, it only makes sense that the Internet would eventually become a common venue for receiving educational degrees. However, because elearning is so convenient and economical, there is room for fraud, as with many Internet based endeavors.

When thinking about pursuing an online college degree, one should always confirm the legitimacy, accreditation, and validity of the Internet educational institute. Many online degree programs are offered through accredited universities and colleges, however there are many others that are not valid at all. More and more online Bachelor degree programs are being ousted as diploma mills.

Once the student confirms that the online educational institute is valid, the student can safely pursue his or her education online without worry. E-learning is a very economical and convenient way of receiving a college degree. Students save money on dormitory and travel expenses when they engage in online education.

Earning a degree in early childhood education online is the first step to obtaining a long and fulfilling career in childhood education. Educators touch the lives of many people. When it starts as soon as early childhood, the rewards to the teacher could never be better. Starting this journey with an online college degree one could be influencing young students in just a few years.

About the Author:
Kevin Pederson hs contributed many articles on Learningpulse (http://www.learningpulse.com/) which is online guide to making wise career choices and various educational programs
Tag: online childhood education
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If you have been away from studying for a while you will need to think about the effort of concentration needed to start studying again. For those with less time since their studying days, concentration will come much easier. If you did not develop good studying skills you will find there will be some frustrations while learning the correct methods and creating new habits. But concentration is the key to mastery of a subject and meeting your goals, whatever the medium.

Don’t just revert to studying as if the material was printed and don’t print out the material; rely on your notes and your memory. Taking written notes is more important with e-Learning than in any other type of learning situation. Don’t stop taking notes just because the learning material is online. Taking handwritten notes is a key element in moving new short-term information into your long-term memory.

As with any material you need to learn, bring your concentration to the subject and shut out distractions. Now review and scan all the material before you.. If the material content is large, scan it briefly then start to break it down into smaller sections. Read these one at a time and chunk it. Read titles and subheadings and concentrate on any diagrams.. You will start to see patterns in the material which help create mind-visual-understanding associations.

Concentration on following ideas and major concepts more than the actual words will pay off, especially if you let the titles and headings provide you with clues and guidance. By reading the introductory and concluding paragraphs first, you will get an appreciation of the starting and ending concepts which help you to connect the body of work and your concentration effort.

You should take special care of your eyes and posture when reading from the computer screen. Every 20 minutes take an eye break by refocusing them on some object at least 20 feet away from you. Improve your posture by tilting your screen up so that the screen’s centre points toward your nose, helping you to reduce tension and cramping in your neck and shoulders.

The most important key to any type of learning is concentration and the desire to learn. I you can find your own rhythm you will have fun with the process. So as you see concentration and e-learning go together, you just have to remember the differences from paper-based learning.

About the Author:
Peter Fisher is an expert Author and Publisher of Your Success Principle (http://www.your-success-principle.com/) Follow this link for more Concentration resources you can access any time of day or night.
Tag: Self Improvement
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If we wanted to list them out… the list could be long. But chances are… many of them could potentially fall into three groups:

1. Current program is too costly, budget concerns, not enough emphasis on making training a priority due to cost issues.

2. Lost productivity due to current workflow, lack of a systematic organized way to deliver training, limited resources.

3. Delivering training that isn’t conducive to all four learning modalities; trainees aren’t realizing the full benefit of your program.

Simply stated, the biggest issues with training are cost, resources and ineffective learning modules and courses.

Historically, although most companies realize the need for an effective training program, many don’t realize that changing one, two or all three of the items above can have a dramatic effect on their training program and allow management, superiors and the owners of the company to really take notice.

Enter elearning.

It doesn’t take much research on the net to find articles and PR about how effective elearning can be. It’s a $5 billion dollar industry that in some cases has really benefited organizations. In others – it’s radically transformed not only how people deliver their training and track its effectiveness… but how organizations view training as a whole.

Elearning should be viewed as a compliment to your current training program, not something that should eventually replace a trainer or classroom instructor… not at all. There are huge benefits waiting to be reaped when you begin to realize how to leverage an elearning management system. Huge.

A Careful Balance.

However, we must keep in mind that the system alone is not an end to your problems. While an elearning management system will help your endeavour – you must have a clear understanding of the three issues above to effectively maximize your ROI with the right system.

In 2004, the Nonprofit and Association E-Learning survey was introduced and 481 individuals responded. 88% of those surveyed said the biggest benefit received from elearning was “convenience for learners”. Last year, U.S. companies spent $55 Billion dollars on training and much of that was spent on “non-elearning” activities and materials (manuals, workbooks, CD’s, and the re-production thereof).

Inflexible training schedules, the increasing cost of creating and editing material and running week-long training classes are costly impediments to an effective training program. Elearning removes those from your life… forever. With an elearning management system, you can deliver training 24×7 on autopilot, create and update training courses with ease and at a low cost and can run pre and post assessments (before and after your training classes) to make your classes much more focused and productive AND be able to reinforce your message with repetition and frequency, long after the class is over.

The third big point we made early on… (ineffective training material) can also be smartly eradicated by leveraging an elearning management system, as well.

Someone once said – “the key to persuasion and learning is to elicit child-like curiosity.” The formula goes something like this… create learning modules and material that engage your employees, involve their senses and their emotions into an experience… and interact with them so they’re involved… and they’ll learn faster. When a child is curious, their natural tendency is to really pay attention.

Engage and Interact Your Way to Success.

So your objective is to provide your learners with material that engages their senses (eyes, ears, and feeling) and interacts with and involves them, keeping them interested.

There are four modalities of learning and each of us learns differently. Some of us are “readers” and learn only by writing notes and reading books and manuals, while others are “listeners” and have an easier time learning through lectures, CD’s or audio tapes. Some of us are “viewers” and learn by seeing and watching instructors and DVD’s and others still only learn by being truly involved… hands on.

The biggest mistake we make as trainers is that we don’t always keep the four modalities at the forefront of our training program. When we start to understand that not everyone receives our message the same way – we can begin to modify our program that empowers us to reach every person we intended to.

Again, elearning can do that for you. It not only has the power to save you time and money, it can reach more people faster with a more engaging message.

The end result can be increased productivity and profitability for your organization where you make the learning experience fun for everyone at your organization.

And here’s the kicker… when training is engaging, interactive, flexible and fun, your trainees learn faster and retain your information longer – making them as effective as they can be.

In my opinion, elearning is that “small hinge” that can swing the “big door” of your training program, enabling you to properly cultivate and nurture your employees into a productive workforce.

About the Author:
George Ritacco is the Director of Client Services for Global Vision Technologies, Inc (GVT)., http://www.globalvisiontech.com a premiere software developer specializing in powerful, easy-to-use Internet systems for online training and development (http://www.omnitrackplus.com ) and communication (http://www.omniviewbroadcaster.com ). GVT’s primary goal is to provide our customers with tools for improving productivity, profitability, employee morale and turnover.
Tag: E-learning management systems
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What is a Content-authoring Tool?

According to Wikipedia.org, “a content-authoring tool is a software application used to create multimedia content typically for delivery on the World Wide Web. Content-authoring tools may also create content in other file formats so the training can be delivered on a CD (compact disc) or in other formats for various different uses. The category of content-authoring tools includes HTML, Flash, and various types of e-Learning authoring tools.”

Course-authoring tools can create online courses, while content-authoring tools create subject specific online content. Subject Specific Online Content more than likely has less features and functionality than an online course created with a course-authoring tool, but, this depends upon the software used to create the content. In the e-Learning industry, we generally use the two phrases interchangeably, and in this article, I will do so also.

What is a Learning Management System?

Learning Management Systems (LMSs) are web-based software application platforms used to plan, implement, and assess learning processes related to online and offline training administration and performance management. LMSs provide an instructor a way in which to create and deliver content, monitor learners’ participation, and assess student performance. LMSs also provide learners with interactive features, such as threaded discussions, web conferencing, discussion forums, and other methods of communication.

Generally, a Learning Management System has its own online content-authoring tool as part of the overall system. There are content-authoring tools / systems out there in the market that call themselves “Learning Management Systems”, but really are just front-end and / or presentation-authoring tools, with little or almost no LMS functionality. A good Learning Management System should work with many types of content-authoring tools.

In fact, many companies may start out using one or two content-authoring tools along with their Learning Management System. As their e-Learning initiative grows and changes over time, they use different types of content-authoring tools to achieve the various effects needed. This is often due to business changes and the fact that in many corporate training scenarios, a Learning Management System or other larger, more complex enterprise software systems use content-authoring tools to develop the online training content that is managed.

What does SCORM/AICC compliant mean?

SCORM stands for Sharable Courseware Object Reference Model (SCORM), which is a set of specifications that, when applied to course content, produces small, reusable e-Learning objects. A result of the Department of Defense’s Advanced Distributed Learning (ADL) initiative, SCORM-compliant courseware elements are easily merged with other compliant elements to produce a highly modular repository of training materials.

AICC standards apply to the development, delivery, and evaluation of training courses that are delivered via technology. AICC stands for the Aviation Industry CBT [Computer-Based Training] Committee (AICC), which is an international association of technology-based training professionals that develops training guidelines for the aviation industry.

Many e-Learning content-authoring tools are SCORM/AICC compliant. A rule of thumb is, as long as the content-authoring tool is SCORM/AICC compliant (creates SCORM/AICC compliant courses) and the Learning Management System is SCORM/AICC compliant (works with SCORM/AICC courses), they will work together.

Factors to Consider When Evaluating Content-authoring Tools

Situational Parameters

Remember that not all tools are appropriate for all training delivery methods. It’s important to consider the context in which course-authoring tools will be used. As you gather information, keep in mind that as long as your online training is founded on good instructional design principles, the interactivity produced by the authoring tool you choose will strengthen the learner’s experience.

Training Objectives & Delivery Methods

What type of training are you providing? Is it a blended learning experience? Will some training be online and some in classrooms? This will help determine which course authoring tools and LMSs you can use. Will you provide training on a CD Rom? Are your learners certifying on a product, service, or procedure? Are you teaching someone to use a certain software program?

Media Needs

What types of media will you use? Does the content-authoring tool of your choice support those file types?

Resources and Ongoing Support

Do you have the resources to support the types of online training you wish to develop? Graphic designers? Appropriate subject matter experts? Voice talent? Video producers? Models? Production Designers? Outside user testing? Etc.

What about after the training is developed? Does the training need to be refreshed periodically, anywhere from in 6 months to a year or beyond? Will any tests associated with the training change on a regular basis? Will you have the right resources and support in place for any ongoing e-Learning content development needs?

Funds & Timing

How much is budgeted for the project? Will you have a team of people to develop the training? Should you outsource? What things are specific to the type of training you will be developing that may be compromised by outsourcing? How steep is the learning curve associated with the tools you are thinking of using for the project?

Interactivity

What level of interactivity is required for the training? Simulations and other dynamic learning activities are great to have, but are they really appropriate or needed for the type of online training you will be developing? Flash has become the standard tool used for many interactive learning activities. If your authoring tool works with Flash, how much more do you need?

Plug-ins

Some course-authoring tools may need plug-ins, but this has become much less of a problem in e-Learning today than it was just a few years ago. Obviously, if you are dealing with a group of learners who are not technically savvy, have older browsers (IE 4.0 or below; Netscape 4.0 or below), or mostly use slow dial up connections, plug-ins become a real liability in regards for delivering online courses.

Platforms

What platforms will the training be delivered on? Does the online training you develop have to work across a combination of platforms such as PC, MAC, UNIX or others? Does it have to work across a variety of operating systems and / or browsers?

Total Cost of Ownership

It’s always best to evaluate any software or systems acquisition by looking at the total cost of ownership (TCO). TCO is a financial metric designed to help assess direct and indirect costs related to the purchase of any capital investment, such as (but not limited to) computer software or hardware. In this case, the TCO would include the cost of the application, training, upgrades, maintenance, and any other costs associated with the company owning the product over its lifetime.

Conclusion

The course-authoring tool that best meets your needs will depend entirely upon your situation. In the long run, applying due diligence during the evaluation process will save you time and money.

About the Author:
Dana Fine is a Senior Instructional Designer at SyberWorks, Inc. http://www.syberworks.com. SyberWorks is a custom e-Learning solutions company that specializes in Learning Management Systems, e-Learning solutions, and custom online course development. Dana is also a frequent contributor to the Online Training Content Journal http://www.boggse-learningchronicle.typepad.com/the_online_training_conte/.
Tag: Content-Authoring Tool
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