Support for elearning and training takes a number of forms. The most obvious is the creation of the instructional content itself. Instructional content, sometimes called courseware or training ware, is the information delivered to the student during the training process. The style and structure of your content has a great impact on the effectiveness of training, particularly in elearning contexts.

Support also includes the editing and formatting of your current content, the conversion of content into new authoring environments, the adaptation of content for re-use in new learning contexts, and preparation for delivery through new channels (for example, taking a classroom course and converting it for online delivery).

Sounds like jargon?

Almost any discussion on elearning is full of jargon, but the basic principles of good training are simple. Good training is based on the effective delivery of information in a form that allows students to absorb and incorporate it. The same rules that apply to most forms of effective technical communication apply to the content used in training. Simplicity and usefulness determine effectiveness.

There are challenges, however. A number of techniques are used in training to enhance the integration of information by the student (the conversion of information into actual usable knowledge). Individual differences in learning styles must be accommodated. And the context in which the material is delivered has a huge impact.

Leader-led training

Traditional leader-led training (training in a classroom or lab, with a teacher or mentor) is still the preferred mode of training, when budget and logistics allow. It's particularly useful in vertical knowledge (specialized) settings, or where assessment is important.

Leader-led training has become part of the e-learning palette with the advent of training-by-videoconference and Internet-broadcasted training. Virtual classrooms attempt to mimic the traditional classroom, while providing the advantages of virtual simulations and online assessment tools.

E-learning

Stated simply, elearning is like any other form of training in most respects. Its advantages over other, more traditional forms of instruction include high scalability at low cost, reduced peer effects, self-paced learning, and just-in-time delivery of training. Its disadvantages include a lack of moderation or mentorship, a tendency to provide 'one size fits all' training methodologies, reduced effectiveness in assessments, and a loss of the peer and time pressures that sometimes aid learning.

Computer Based Training (CBT)

The term CBT has fallen out of favour in recent years, being replaced with terms such as elearning and computer-based instruction. Basically, CBT refers to interactive instructional content delivered on-demand to a student by way of a computer, primarily in an offline mode and oftentimes in the form of a CDROM. (When accessing content over a network, the term elearning is more common.)

CBT can take many forms. Simple linear, non-interactive content can be delivered effectively using PowerPoint presentations and slideshows. For interactive simulations or 'workspaces', Authorware is still the preferred tool. Flash is becoming a popular choice for interactive or media-rich content. In some cases, canned video clips linked together to form instructional modules can be very effective.

Competency Based Training (the other CBT)

Competency-based training emphasizes the new abilities (competencies) a student gains during training. Competency-based training is often provided in the workplace as part of a larger work certification program. Competency-based training is usually modularized, with individual modules referred to as learning outcomes. When students demonstrate their ability to perform the skills or tasks for a given module, they are allowed to move on to other modules. Typically, the training is self-paced, allowing students to progress quickly if they are able.

SCORM

SCORM (Sharable Content Object Reference Model) is a new approach to the management and delivery of training, although not a new idea. SCORM is a form of content management based on a set of standards that defines how content chunks are managed and delivered to users. SCORM's application to elearning relates primarily to the creation of dynamic course objects from a large set of modularized building blocks. A course can be customized very precisely to a student's needs and history. Student assessment can be built into the course engine to monitor progress and control course flow.

SCORM relies on XML as a framework for encapsulating the metadata needed to manage all the individual content chunks and deliver them intelligently to the student.

What can Nocturne do for you?

Nocturne offers value in several areas:

• Development of instructional content for traditional in-class use, or for elearning
• Formatting or file conversion of existing content
• Editing of content (mechanical edting, copy editing, technical editing, and substantive editing, in addition to validation of instructional effectiveness)
• Process consulting with regards to content management.

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