Technology-Assisted Learning

Companies wanted training available on an as-needed, just-in-time basis. (RS157-1, p. 3)

The survey indicated no major barriers (resource, cultural, or organizational) to adopting Technology-Assisted Learning (TAL). Internet-based delivery method would also be the most cost-effective means of CII training. (RS157-1, p. 3)

To aid in the selection process, the research team developed a set of charateristics as well as specifications that a finished product should be able to support. (RS157-1, pp. 5-6)

• Promote active learning
• Promote understanding of the concepts
• Include learning objectives
• Include interactive learning activities
• Include an evaluation tool
• Include a training management/reporting tool

Current plans developed by the CII Education Committee provide for two phases within the Technology-Assisted Learning (TAL) system:

1. The TAL-Internet (TAL-I) can deliver the factual content of the module. TAL-I provides just-in-time delivery anywhere in the world and allows employees to take a course when time is available.
2. Since interaction between people from differing organizations is valuable, the TAL-Workshop phase (TAL-W) will be developed as well.

By using the TAL-I phase only, a minimum level of stand-alone training can be made available to those who may require a basic understanding of a particular topic. TAL-I will be used to pre-qualify participants for TAL-W offerings on each TAL topic. (RS157-1, p. 7)

The research team does not view TAL as a replacement for the current CII education delivery methodologies. In many instances, methods other than TAL would take precedence. In other cases, TAL could be supplemental and supportive of current offerings. Some of the ways that TAL can provide value to the education process include the following: (RS157-1, pp. 10-11)

• Providing minimum stand-alone training for those requiring overview only.
• Providing evaluated pre-qualification for facilitated TAL-W workshop/case studies.
• Raising awareness level and potential for implementation of CII best practices.
• Providing networking benefits on specific CII best practices topics through TAL-W workshop/case studies.
• Enhancing CII education delivery methods to keep pace with industry improvements.
• Providing training on the use of CII best practices to a more extensive professional audience than has been impacted by the traditional training delivery techniques and systems.