Computer-Based Training: Useful or Useless? Essay -- Technology Techno

Computer-Based Training: Useful or Useless? "The times they are a’changin’" sang Bob Dylan at one of his more profound moments. Oftentimes, it is human nature to resist change no matter what the situation in which the change is taking place. However, change is a fact of life and at a time of boundless innovations in the field of technology, the Information Age, if you will, it is futile to resist it. Unfortunately, that resistance is exactly what is causing many people to see only the disadvantages of computer-based training (CBT), regardless of the enormous amount of benefits the implementation of computer-based training could bring to their companies, their employees, and ultimately, to the bottom line (profit). In an attempt to be objective, a definition and some background on CBT are in order. What is Computer-Based Training? Computer-based training is, in a general sense, a reproducible system of instruction conveyed through the use of a computer for the purpose of training an individual. Pretty vague, isn’t it? To be more specific, CBT can take on different forms. According to Kulik, Kulik & Shwalb (1986), as quoted in an article on CBT by Christopher Janicak (1999), CBT programs can be classified as: computer-assisted instruction (CAI), in which the program provides drill and practice; computer-managed instruction (CMO), in which the program evaluates the student's test performance, guides him/her to appropriate instructional resources and tracks progress; and computer-enriched instruction (CEI) in which the computer serves as a simulator or programming device. Most CBT modules are "†¦developed by teams of five specialists: an expert in the particular subject (a SME), a technical exper... ...iance". Pipeline& Gas Journal, 222, 52-54. Dhanjal, R. & Calis, G. (1999). "Computer-based training in the steel industry". Steel Times, 227, 13-14. Dick, W., & Carey, L. (1996). The Systematic Design of Instruction. New York, NY: HarperCollins. --- (1997)."Interactive media corp. receives awards for multimedia programs". Information Today, 14, 31. Janicak, C. (1999). "Computer-based training: Developing programs with the knowledge-based safety training system". Professional Safety, 44, 34-36. Lawson, S. (1999). "Computer-based training: Is it the next wave?". Professional Safety, 44, 30-33. Prewitt, M. (1998). "Darden execs share ins, outs of computer training". Nation’s Restaurant News, 32, 57-58. Rubenstein, E. (1999). "The learning imperative: Operators tap CBT, the ‘net,’ to train and retain employees". Nation’s Restaurant News, 33, 51-52.