E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums

Contents Abstract ...................................................................................................................................... 1 1. Introduction ........................................................................................................................ 2 1.1 E-Learning................................................................................................................... 2 E-Learning evolution ........................................................................................... 3

1.1.1 1.2

Computer Based Training (CBT) ................................................................................ 4 Evolution of CBT ................................................................................................. 4

1.2.1 1.3

Knowledge forums ...................................................................................................... 6 Evolution of knowledge forums........................................................................... 7

1.3.1 2

Applicability & Importance E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and

Knowledge Forums .................................................................................................................... 8 2.1 E-Learning................................................................................................................... 8 Applications ......................................................................................................... 8 Benefits over the E-learning ................................................................................ 9

2.1.1 2.1.2 2.2

Computer Based Training ........................................................................................... 9 Applications ......................................................................................................... 9 Advantages over CBT ........................................................................................ 10 Disadvantages over CBT ................................................................................... 10

2.2.1 2.2.2 2.2.3 2.3

Knowledge Forum ..................................................................................................... 11 Application of Knowledge Forums .................................................................... 11 Advantages of using knowledge forums ............................................................ 11 Disadvantages of knowledge forum................................................................... 11

2.3.1 2.3.2 2.3.3 3

Adoption of E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums in Sri

Lankan context ......................................................................................................................... 13 References ................................................................................................................................ 15

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums List of Figures

Figure 1-1: Merging language and field of study Figure 1-2: Evolution of CBT

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List of Tables

Table 1-1: CBT developments over the years Table 2.1.2-1: benefit of E-Leaning over the CBT

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E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums

Abstract E-learning, Computer Based Training and Knowledge Forums are the current trends of the learning practices. With time of origin these techniques evolve from very low state to higher position and now its more essential for learning. This essay describes on what it means by E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums and their evolution over the time. These techniques are applied in several ways at real world learning institutes. Advantages and disadvantage of those techniques will be described in later that will be exposing the applicability on those.

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums 1. 1.1 E-Learning E-learning is derived from Electronic Learning. Which is involving electronic media into learning style. Commonly it can be referred to the intentional use of networked information and communications technology in teaching and learning. A number of other terms are also used to describe this mode of teaching and learning. They include online learning, virtual learning, distributed learning, network and web based learning. Fundamentally, they all refer to educational processes that utilize information and communications technology to mediate asynchronous as well as synchronous learning and teaching activities. (Naidu, 2003) E-learning intersects numerous fields of thought and practice, and cannot be trivialized into a simple formula for success. E-learning encompasses an array of academic perspectives: training and education, and technological perspective: Information and Technology as shown in figure 1.1-1 this makes learning and knowledge and ultimately ELearning. (www.mup.com.au, 2005) Figure 1-1: Merging language and field of study Introduction

(Source: http://www.mup.com.au)

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums In the path of development on e-Learning practice it is go beyond the online based learning, now its e-learning would incorporate all educational activities that are carried out by individuals or groups working online or offline, and synchronously or asynchronously via networked or standalone computers and other electronic devices. Anyhow in modern day electronic media is covering entire society. It will give easy way to access all sort of information, knowledge bases. It can be say the major advantage to learners is its easy access to knowledge. It doesnt matter what time?, at where?, By whom? Therefore it is the freedom of learning in anytime, anywhere. 1.1.1 E-Learning evolution E-learning is established to break the distance barrier between learner and the teacher. In the initial stage e-learning was first popularized, it was widely promoted as a means of minimizing costs by delivering pre-packaged content to large populations of learners by means of electronic networks or CD-ROMs. (Kurtus, 2004) This was almost one-way communication method. But in real life learning environment two-way communications is vital for effective understanding about the subject matters. Later with the telecommunication technology development this was not a barrier to built effective two-way communication. As per current context the information availability is very much higher and the accessibility to the information is also high using latest technologies like High-Speed Downlink Packet Access (HSDPA), High Speed Packet Access (HSPA), and Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access (WiMAX). These systems made the cost of access to very low level. In Sri Lankan context 1 Mbps internet connection can be purchased for about Rs.700 rental. Also technologies were developed further to attract learners to e-Learning platform. Support multimedia resource-based learning and teaching is also relevant to the growing interest in e-learning. Again numbers of teachers who are using online teaching and their use of communications and technology is rapidly growing. Therefore it can be say that e-Learning will be the future learning practice which will be last long.

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums 1.2 Computer Based Training (CBT) This is basically a training method which used or developed base on computer system. There is a special training program on a computer and learner should able to execute it and trained through the instruction given. CBT is especially effective for training people to use computer applications because the CBT program can be integrated with the applications so that students can practice using the application as they learn. CBT is required to developed by trainer or instructor and adequate hardware for execute it. However, the increase in PC computing power, and especially the growing prevalence of computers equipped with CD-ROMs, is making CBT a more viable option for corporations and individuals alike. Many PC applications now come with some modest form of CBT, often called a tutorial. CBT is also called computer-assisted instruction (CAI). (QuinStreet Inc, 2011) In contrast, CBT is the knowledge delivery system. As an examples including Internet, CD-ROMs, DVDs, and local area networks (LANs) are part of CBT. CBT refers to your computer hooked up to the Internet for the purpose of E-Learning. Obviously, ELearning is only one reason why you choose to own a computer connected to the Internet. 1.2.1 Evolution of CBT The first CBT system was the IBM 650 Inquiry Station interfaced to a text-based typewriter used to teach binary arithmetic. The IBM 650 was the first mass-produced digital computer and the very first computer acquired by many universities. Tannenbaum (1999) describes the next major instructional technology initiative and the context in which it was introduced: During the early 1960s, IBM researchers had experimented with computer-based instruction, using earlier computers and an assembler-level language they called Course writer. The success of these experiments, together with the demand for better education fueled by the Russian Sputnik successes and the programmed learning research of such psychologists as B. F. Skinner, led IBM to develop the IBM 1500 system. (Reisman, 2010) The mid-1960s through late 1980s was characterized by the improvement of CBT with enhanced multimedia. During that time, debates raged regarding the definition of

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums multimedia. A somewhat later publication offered a definition that reflected the eventual resolution of some of those debates. Figure 1-2: Evolution of CBT

Student in Computer Room, 1981 (London School of Economics Library)

Information systems A technician train on student about computer-based simulations of the communications equipment.

As per current condition CBT is comes up to your palm with the advancement of mobile technology and telecommunication technology development. As an example apple IPAD is very much advanced mobile computer which supports to access the vast area of information systems in anyplace. Some mile stone of CBT development is shown in following table1-1.

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums Table 1-1: CBT developments over the years Event Date 1/1/1950 9/12/1959 9/12/1967 9/12/1968 9/6/1977 9/12/1980 9/12/1981 1/1/1990

Event Title Developing Technology Technology in School Child Development Theory 3 Kinds of Memory Technology in Schools Constructivist with Technology and Education Conditions of Learning Social Activism Theory

Event Description 1st Computer used for instruction 1st computer used with school children Jean Piaget - Children have to go through different stages to learn. Sensory registers, STM, LTM 1st computers implemented in schools Paperts book noted current methods of teaching math with technology. Learning Hierarchies & Events of Instruction John Dewey believed in education! Integrated topics, math, being prepared for work and that you need real hands on materials to go out into the world. Lev Vygotsky - learning is influenced by differences one goes through. World Wide Web Yahoo is born! Google becomes a domain! Internet is now used for K-12 learning

9/12/1990 9/12/1994 9/12/1994 9/15/1997 9/12/2000

Scaffolding Theory BORN The internet is born. YAHOO GOOGLE Internet

Source: (www.timetoast.com) 1.3 Knowledge forums Knowledge forum refers to the informational content developed by subject matter experts (SME) who use a variety of different CBT methods. This is designed to help and support knowledge building communities. With development of internet there are many users built their own appearance on web about their experiences, learning, findings and etc. Also some other users put their queries about unknown matters. Any other user can go through those pages while referring them as well as adding their queries to it. Ultimately this brings a large amount of information and became knowledge forum. As an example www.tripadvisor.com is a vast knowledge forum which include thousand of hotels around the globe. People who visited to hotel or restaurant are putting their comment about the place even it is bad or good. That information is very vital for new customer who is willing to visit the place in near future.

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums When building knowledge based system there should be recognized experts, there is general agreement about the knowledge, also incremental progress is possible for adding more information. 1.3.1 Evolution of knowledge forums Knowledge forum concepts arise in beginning of this millennium. At the time of year 2000 internet usage is rise rapidly. It is known as explode of internet usage. With that online and distance learning increases in higher education. In 2007 International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Issues new, updated standards for teachers, students, and administrators. This addresses the rapid changes in technology, instruction, and learning environments? ISTE led a collaborative, international effort to refresh the standards. Thousands of educators and education leaders participated in the project, resulting in the release of the refreshed standards beginning in 2007.

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums 2 Applicability & Importance E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums E-Learning

2.1

2.1.1 Applications We can found many applications of e-Learning platform and few of them are listed below. Email this is the most common form of electronic information exchange. Collaborative learning forums - promote learner interaction through message boards, where students can post questions and answers; E-boards - allow learners and instructors to create images, text and information and present them to other participants. Application sharing - allows instructors and learners to work collaboratively on the same learning materials, either simultaneously or in sequence. Participants can see what is happening at all times. Simulations or virtual laboratories - permit learners to work in teams to construct projects and complete them at their preferred pace. Library/learning session - cache access provides access to archived text, presentations, video, audio and data fi les. This is especially useful for revision or for reviewing synchronous learning sessions a student may have missed. Real-time tests and evaluation this can be triggered at agreed times or completed at the learners own pace. Video and audio streaming - used to disseminate information to learners, and can also enable learners to see and speak with the facilitator via the Internet rather than by telephone. (www.mup.com.au, 2005)

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums 2.1.2 Benefits over the E-learning E-learning is much more reached to the learner rather than any other types of learning methods like Computer based training. Comparison between few of CBT techniques and ELearning is shown in below Table 2.2.2-1. Table 2-1: benefit of E-Leaning over the CBT

Source: (www.mup.com.au, 2005) 2.2 Computer Based Training

2.2.1 Applications Tutorial - the most common of all techniques is the tutorial. It is used to introduce new information that must be taught in a sequential manner. It is useful for teaching factual information, simple discrimination, rules, and simple application of rules. Drill and Practice - provides opportunities for practice when mastery of a new skill or information is desired. It should be used after initial instruction. Training Games Training games supplement other instruction and are used to provide motivating and engaging opportunities for practice after a skill or new information is

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums taught. Training games capitalize on the competitive interests of learners and add entertainment value to instruction. Simulation - The technique of simulation is most often used when practicing a skill in its real context is too costly or dangerous. It provides an opportunity for experimentation, and allows students to test assumptions in a realistic context. Simulations are also used to model real-world situations that are not physically dangerous or costly, in order to build realism and relevance into the training situation. As an example Aviation training programs utilized CBT method to simulate actual aircraft conditions Problem Solving - One of the most challenging techniques used in CBT is problem solving. It helps students develop skills in logic, solving problems, and following directions, and is generally used to augment higher order thinking skills. Demonstration/Presentation - Demonstration or presentation is best used to support the introduction of new information. It can also be used as a review tool. (Bixler., 2010) 2.2.2 Advantages over CBT Cost effective where more people and more place involves in training Maintains higher control of learning Provides consistency Accommodates differences in trainee readiness Excellent for training knowledge and attitudes Improved learning because of multiple media can be used Proceed at trainers pace (can repeats, any time slot)

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2.2.3 Disadvantages over CBT High cost to produce, purchase and implement Very costly when need of revisions Hardware and software requirements Technological support needed Low or no interaction (Limits real time Discussion and Resolution of Trainee Concerns) Difficulty deciphering content Still need Trainer/Facilitator, Materials or Manuals, Other Training Methods

(American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute, 2010)

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums 2.3 Knowledge Forum

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2.3.1 Application of Knowledge Forums Knowledge based forums is basically used in all sort of areas of information where the concentrated information is needed. Experts of relevant fields are gathered together and sharing their view on particular subject matter is very common way of application. As an example in Sri Lankan context Hybrid vehicle owners forms online website http://hybridsrilanka.wordpress.com which exchange their experience. Open source software developers maintain online knowledge based forums to sort out software developing issues. Many organizations keep their historical data in soft manner for future usage. In this kind of knowledge saving mechanism increase the productivity of resolving problems when arise in repetition. 2.3.2 Advantages of using knowledge forums Magnify availability of expertise knowledge Provide expertise to less experienced personnel Avoid delays when expertise is needed Provide expertise in locations where it is not available Fuse different sources of knowledge Encode corporate knowledge Provide consistency and availability over time Automate some routine decision-making or Bookkeeping tasks Keep records of decisions and actions Provide a reliable database for later analysis (Smith, 1985)

2.3.3 Disadvantages of knowledge forum Common sense - In addition to a great deal of technical knowledge, human experts have common sense. It is not yet known how to give knowledge based systems common sense. Creativity - Human experts can respond creatively to unusual situations, knowledge based systems cannot.

E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums Learning - Human experts automatically adapt to changing environments; knowledge based system s must be explicitly updated. Case-based reasoning and neural networks are methods that can incorporate learning. Sensory Experience - Human experts have available to them a wide range of sensory experience; knowledge based system are currently dependent on symbolic input. Degradation - knowledge based system are not good at recognizing when no answer exists or when the problem is outside their area of expertise. (Co/AJRA, 1997)

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E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums 3 Adoption of E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums in Sri Lankan context As current day context Sri Lanka is in tremendous develop on information technology. So there is high potential of adopting E-Learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums. There can be show more evidence on adopting those learning methods in Sri Lanka. All over the island in Universities using computer based training methods in bachelor levels as well as master level. And online information access as a supporting material also can be seen. YouTube videos, Google searches are commonly used as supportive materials. In organization context we can see much organization maintain knowledge based systems for keeping updated their employees about the past, present and future. Also when managing training session many online, E-Learning practices were used. As an example Cisco training programs were conducted via E-learning method which mitigates the distance barrier. As well as they maintain massive amount of information base which is include past failures, known bugs and alarms and online supporting mechanism for rectifying issues. When the rule set for a knowledge base system, e-learning systems or computer based trainings it is vital to maintain the accuracy of the information, theories, etc. And right media should be used to transfer the knowledge. Different subject matters need different kind of mechanism to deliver. Technology also needs to be developed according to the environmental changes. As an example high end training program should not be work under low performance computer system. There should be reasonable infra structure. As well as good trained staff needs to be utilize for trouble shooting when problems arise. When taking these methods to rural, sub urban areas that communication media should have to play major role. As an example remote area in northeast is not having good coverage even for low level of data speed. So government should act on this concern by providing some incentive to the telecom operators for providing data service on those areas. In this scenario of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) education and curricular development should be coordinated in all aspects within the government machinery such as the Education Ministry, Department of Examinations,, University Councils, CINTEC,

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E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums SLIIT, NIBM, etc so that the students will have a clear idea on what they should learn to achieve their ambitions. At present, the education system has become too complicated and too congested that the students find it extremely difficult to know what to learn. When developing Internet Service (ISP) it must be having a positive attitude towards the implementation on Internet applications but also keep an eye on the bad side of the internet. As example allow children to use the net for learning purposes but safeguard them from malpractices such as pornography.

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E-learning, Computer Based Training (CBT) and Knowledge Forums References American Hotel & Lodging Educational Institute. (2010). Training with Technology. Bixler., B. (2010). Selecting and Implementing Computer-Based Training. Retrieved September 2011, from www.personal.psu.edu: http://www.personal.psu.edu/bxb11/CBTGuide/Overview/Techniq.htm Co/AJRA, J. &. (1997). The Basics of Expert (Knowledge Based) Systems. Kurtus, R. (2004, April 4 ). What is e-Learning? - Strategies to Succeed in e-Learning Development: School for Champions. Retrieved September 2011, from www.school-forchampions.com: http://www.school-for-champions.com/elearning/whatis.htm Naidu, S. (2003). E-Learining A guidebook of Principles, Procedures and Practice. QuinStreet Inc. (2011). What is CBT? - A Word Definition From the Webopedia Computer Dictionary. Retrieved September 2011, from www.webopedia.com: http://www.webopedia.com/TERM/C/CBT.html Reisman, S. (2010). Evolution of computer based distance Learning. MERLOT.ORG, USA & California State University, , Fullteron, USA. Smith, R. G. (1985). Knowledge-Based Systems, Concepts, Techniques, Examples. Schlumberger-Doll Research, Old Quarry Road, USA. www.mup.com.au. (2005). What is e-Learning ? Retrieved September 2011, from www.mup.com.au: http://www.mup.com.au/uploads/files/pdf/978-0-522-85130-4.pdf www.timetoast.com. (n.d.). Evolution of Technology and Education Time Line. Retrieved September 2011, from www.timetoast.com: http://www.timetoast.com/timelines/evolutionof-technology-and-education--2

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