The advantage of this system of learning is that the student can learn at his own speed. This means quick learners can go ahead without worrying about taking average students with him, or waiting until they understand the concepts of each lesson. Similarly, slow learners can also work at their own pace without feeling nervous or ashamed at their pace of learning.
A student can learn anything from this kind of learning�"languages, maths, history, computer-related programs, corporate training, customer support and project management, to name a few. However, it has the capacity of adapting itself to any subject across all disciplines and can be done in any language of the world. This form of learning has its roots in the aviation industry which gave it "wings". In the 1980s, it was introduced for pilot training programs in order to reduce pilot training costs and avoid the problem of safety in on-site training.
A few years later, the power of CBT was seen by educational institutes and the corporate market where text-based instructional manuals served as lessons to teach students how to complete particular lessons. However, at that time, CBT could not make a grand entry into the market as it did not have the support of computers, which were in the growth stage itself, making it difficult to make an entry into the classroom. Without appropriate technological support such as full multimedia, which included audio and video, it was difficult to take this concept forward, though bursting with potential.
With the advent of new technology, the quality of CBT courses also improved and by the late 90's, CBT had all the necessary components�"video, streaming audio and topics from different industries and subjects.
Universities all over the world now saw merit in this method and chose it over traditional classroom teaching. Students who couldn't attend classroom sessions could now take online classes comprising video lectures and practice exams. While students explored this novel idea, the employed got a second chance to upgrade their skills and have a better career. Besides, students with learning disabilities also took online courses at their own pace.
But for the rest of the student community, CBT courses have made it possible to study anything at any age anywhere.
Pratibha R. S. Executive - Instructional Designer
Electronic learning or e-learning is an umbrella term for learning enhanced by the use
of computers. To make this happen efficiently, there are many technologies in use, such as CBT
and WBT. Computer Based Training(CBT) is a new-age way of
learning. It is a form of education in which a student learns by using special training
programs while on a computer. This system worked well in the pre-Internet days, but with the
explosive use of the Internet, the scope of CBTs is forced to expand. It has several advantages
over traditional classroom learning methods and over self-taught books. Advantages of CBT:
The learner can think, respond and give feedback on the subject.
It offers a stimulating environment where the learner can learn at his own pace.
A learner can take the course at his convenience without any expense of time or
travel.
By being accessible to the widest audience at multi-locations, it is cost-effective
for the learner.
It can be custom-designed for specific industries, and can also be conveniently used
by the physically challenged.
CBTs also save organizations instructor costs, costs of arranging training and travel
and learners travel costs and time.
Busy IT professionals can get their certifications without the hassle of travelling
to a classroom.
Through CBTs, employees can keep abreast with ever changing technology.
CBT technology also breaks down complex software into bite sized modules for easy and
quick understanding.
Web Based Training (WBT): This is a subset of CBTs in which the
material is made accessible on the Internet by applying Web technologies. Typically, it has text
and graphics, animation, audio and video, and needs additional bandwidth and software to work
optimally. WBT is also referred to as "online courses" and "Web-based
instruction". It presents the latest content of any topic that can be modified and is set in a
framework of self-directed and self-paced instruction. It can also be evaluated and adapted,
without a computer platform. Advantages of WBT:
Training to users is very easily delivered
WBTs can be either in the form of individual or group training
Multi-platform capabilities are possible, such as Windows, Mac, UNIX, PDA, phone,
among others
Content can be easily updated
Finished product has a quicker turnaround
Requires minimal technical support
Billing options comprise user ID, number of accesses, date/time of access
Access can be controlled
Can be linked with other training systems
The Electronic Performance Support Systems (EPSS) can multitask
Pratibha R. S. Executive - Instructional Designer
About CommLab IndiaCommLab India (www.commlabindia.com) is a Custom
eLearning Solutions Company based in India. Since 2000, it has been providing state-of-the-art
eLearning services to organizations across the world in the areas of Learning Consultancy, Custom
Courseware and Learning Technology. Some of our reputed clients are BC Hydro, George Washington
University, Kawasaki and Deloitte. We are preferred vendors to some of the Fortune 500 companies