In this issue:
1. E-learning: Is a rose is a rose is a rose?
2. Everything I learned about Technology Training I learned from Pokemon
3. UK launches new learning lab
4. A reader asks...
5. Upcoming events
1. E-learning: Is a rose is a rose is a rose?
It is always interesting to see the trends and fads come and go and repeat themselves over the years. It is also amusing to see the industry and others struggle with naming these fads or trends.. Veronica P., a reader from France asked, " Where can I find les standards (for) the terminology of Distance Learning?" If you have been in the training industry over the past few years, you have seen the following terms: Distance learning (DL), computer-based training (CBT), Technology-based Training (TBT), Computer based instruction (CBI), Technology Delivered Instruction (TDI), Online (or On-line) Learning (OL or OLL), Web-based Training (WBT) or Web-based Education (WBE) and the latest entry into the pack, E-learning. For years, DL referred to any type of training where the instructor was separated from the student and/or the student was involved in some type of self-study -- this included video tapes, audio tapes, training delivered via a computer, LAN delivered training, teleconferencing, video conferencing, etc. Likewise, the term "online" used to only refer to online documentation or help -- it is just over the past few years that it's definition has been broadened to apply to Online Learning. Over the past three or four years, World Wide Web (WWW) has become the hot topic for businesses and it seems as if all the terms above are used when someone is talking about delivery over the WWW, the Internet or an intranet. E-business is the term appearing in board rooms and on every holiday advertisement so of course, e-learning is the latest term to pop-up.
So what term should you use? Well, Gertrude Stein was right.. a rose is a rose is a rose... I know of companies that use the term WBT to describe their training and others that are successful with On-line learning... and others who are switching to e-learning... they all work..it is less a case of what you call it and more of an issue of what works for your organization. Use a term your customers understand ...and be aware of the terms and buzz words out there so you can help your customers understand the differences - if there are any.
And if you hear of any new buzzwords or terms you would like to share with your fellow readers, please let me know...
2. Everything I learned about Technology Training I learned from Pokemon
A very wise person told me once to look upon every experience as a potential source for inspiration or ideas in becoming a better technology trainer. Over the Thanksgiving holiday I had an opportunity to apply that idea. My youngest niece tried to teach me to the play the Pokemon card game... As any of you who have children under the age of 11 know, THE number one craze among kids is Pokemon. The word "Pokémon" refers to a series of 150 different "pocket monsters" that you are challenged to collect, trade, and nurture in hopes of becoming the greatest Pokémon trainer in the world. You use your monsters to help in battle against other trainers.
"Cool -- sounds like fun,"I thought. "Only 150 cards -- heck, I must know 1500 computer terms. Become the best trainer in the world -- now THAT is MY kind of game..."
After 45 minutes of trying to learn, understand and apply the bazillion rules, characters, levels, strengths and other trivia connected with the game, I became aware that college degrees and years of experience with highly technical topics and a varied career in business don't mean squat when you go head-to-head with a nine-year old Pokemon fanatic. I was exhausted, frustrated, confused, tired, addled, humiliated, and the other "seventh dwarf of unsuccessful training," -- Scared. I also realized that I was reliving my first experience in trying to learn technology -- I was confused by the terms, didn't understand the rules, was being "taught" by an expert who could effortlessly play but could not explain ... and I was "losing."
So what "good training" lessons did I learn (or relearn) from playing Pokemon?
1. Remember not everyone in the world has heard of the latest technology -- there are still lots of people, companies, and even countries where computers and technology do not rule -- so don't assume EVERYONE knows something that you do. Take the time to explain.
2. Not everyone can learn as easily as you do -- figure out different ways of teaching the same thing so different learner styles can be addressed. (Shouting, "No, No, NO Auntie Heidi" is not an effective training method.)
3. Don't let your students get buried by a blizzard of rules, levels, and strengths of a software program -- remember to teach them concepts before you teach them steps... otherwise your Pikachu will get trounced ...I mean they won't be able to become independent learners.
4. Give your students references and/or job aids that are easy to follow and easily referenced. Again, they need to be able to do this on their own after the training (whether online or classroom), so give them tools to help them navigate.
5. The best trainers support their students and help them battle those who are blocking their progression so they can reach their full potential and the highest level.
So on behalf of Meowth, Charizard, Squirtle and Blastoise, I invite you to share with the other Trends readers your favorite "training moment." Just drop me a line ... or a short story... hfisk@influent.com.
3. UK Launches New Learning Lab
Last week I was in England and had the opportunity to go to the launch of a new learning lab. This new lab, located on the campus of the University of Wolverhampton Telford is directed by Professor Steve Molyneux. The aim of the Learning Lab is to become a "Centre of Excellence" for the development and delivery of online learning and the use of innovative technology. What makes this project interesting (and a first in the UK) is the way higher education (the university), corporations (Microsoft, Cisco Systems, BT, and others) and various government entities have come together to work on this initiative. Though this lab is in its embryonic stage, the potential research about life-long learning and online learning looks promising. This Lab is the first of a number planned throughout the world.
Professor Molyneux will be a speaker at the upcoming Computer Training World - Europe Conference (Feb 1-2, 2000) in London England. He will be speaking on trends in online learning and the research initiatives of the Learning Lab. For more information about the conference, visit http://www.influent.com/ctwe2000.
4. A reader asks...
"I am in a training group that primarily does traditional classroom instruction. We are rapidly moving into alternative styles of delivery. (virtual classrooms, WEB training, etc.). Are there any standards for the delivery skills an instructor needs in order to be effective when teaching via technology? (Tips for success, warnings on easy traps to fall into...)"
Kathy Jones
Professional and Technical Training
If you have an answer for Kathy, please send your response to hfisk@influent.com. Answers will be posted in the next Influential Trends issue.
Thanks!
5. Upcoming events
Here are some upcoming events that are of benefit to the industry:
Computer Training World - Europe
February 1-2, 2000 London England
The only European event for Training Managers, Training Directors, and those who are responsible for the strategy and implementation of technology training in their organization. This highly-focused event will have in-depth sessions, provocative keynote presentations, and excellent networking opportunities -- including a conference reception/party hosted by the conference premier sponsor, ExecuTrain. For more information, visit http://www.influent.com/ctwe2000.
WBT Producer Conference & Expo
WBT Executive Summit
ACE User Conference
April 26-28, 2000
San Diego, California, USA
WBT Producer is targeted towards those who develop, design, or create online learning and Web-based training (WBT). The WBT Executive Summit is for Training Directors, managers, and other executives who are responsible for the strategic implementation of online learning/Web-based training. ACE is the Allen Communication user conference. You can find out more about these events by visiting http://www.influent.com
Connecticut Distance Learning Association (CTDLA)
March 29 - 30 , 2000
The Annual conference for this regional group.For more information visit http://www.learning-solu tions.net.
Wanted! Your ideas and issues and questions..
Do you have a question about your technology training challenges? In need of a resource or idea to solve a specific computer training problem? Looking to connect with others in the IT Training industry? This e-newsletter is meant to be a resource for you to find the answers you need to help you survive and thrive in our industry. Readers of this e-newsletter are encouraged to send questions, ideas, resource links or articles to hfisk@influent.com
That's all for now and happy holidays to all!
Heidi Fisk
