Technology Solutions

Implementation of an eLearning program requires a minimum technological platform— hardware, adequate telecommunication capabilities, current browser versions, access to software, etc. In addition, eLearning can involve the delivery of audio, video, or streaming media, all of which increase demands on bandwidth. Because of this, IT needs to be involved from the beginning in the evaluation and selection of eLearning tools and technologies.

From a developer’s perspective, the basic questions regarding the technology required for eLearning involve the hardware, network capabilities, the operating system, software applications, and the extent of updating required. Broadly, the following technological solutions are required for successful implementation of eLearning modules:

• Computer hardware comes in different configurations Computers with more RAM, faster processors, larger hard drives, and other media-enabling capabilities tend to be better for eLearning They provide access to more media rich and interactive experiences than minimally configured computers
• Just as faster is better for a computer, faster also is better on the network The quality of the learner’s experience may be affected by the available bandwidth Learners limited to dial-up connections will not have access to the same range of rich features as those having ADSL or cable
• Allow for customization based on user preference Display elements should be customizable, including the font, font style, font color, font size, cursor size, screen layout, and background
• Text and graphics should be understandable when viewed without color
• Context and orientation information should be provided Indications of size, a consistent layout, grouping of elements, and providing contextual information about relationships all enhance accessibility
• Clear navigation mechanisms such as site maps and consistent navigation bars should be provided
• Make things keyboard accessible Users should be able to manipulate menus and dialog boxes from
the keyboard

The organization should ensure that the appropriate technological capabilities are available. In addition, the system should be completely tested before it is launched so that user problems can be anticipated and addressed. Finally, keep in mind that implementation of an eLearning infrastructure is no trivial matter, both in terms of cost and integration with existing IT infrastructure and applications.

End User Access to eLearning Technologies
From the user’s perspective, Web-based learning offers a significantly different experience from “traditional” training. Besides losing some of the collaborative or group experience, the most significant change for the user will be the presumption of a predefined skill set of technology competency. In order to complete Web-based learning experiences and to participate fully, learners must have an existing facility and comfort with Web technologies.

It is important not only to consider the internal equipment and software that deliver Web-based learning, but also to consider the end-user’s office and home PCs, portable PCs, printers, and phones and the vendor’s technology. Again, while eLearning provides cross-platform flexibility, it also requires that astute consideration be given to all the possible permutations of equipment that may be used to complete online coursework. The provider should follow the following guidelines to ensure the successful deployment of an eLearning solution:

• Providers must work to ensure that eLearning packages are designed using high-quality materials and with appropriate attention to the principles of good teaching
• Providers should ensure that individuals have an effective learning experience and are able to measure their progress in relation to learning outcomes and apply what they have learned
• Providers should also ensure that appropriate support mechanisms are available both on- and offline to support the learning process and a range of preferred learning styles
• Providers must make sure that learners have a minimum skill set At a minimum, the end user needs intermediate Windows and Internet navigation skills and basic typing abilities
• Providers must ensure that the learner is comfortable enough with the technology to concentrate on the content of the training and operate efficiently with the interactive elements in the learning module

Organizational Culture and eLearning Adaptability
eLearning faces cultural challenges. Not all learners find it easy to transition to the online environment from the traditional classroom. Personality and learning styles play a big part in a learner’s desire and motivation to participate in eLearning. Not everyone is prepared to embrace the online learning adventure; hence, learner preparedness is a vital component of moving to an online corporate education environment. However, today’s realities of budget cutting and reduced travel are driving eLearning. For the development and deployment of eLearning, organizations should work to improve the culture surrounding eLearning.

• Content needs to become more focused and integrated, with companies making the most out of classroom based-work
• An eLearning culture must be promoted in the workplace to motivate employees to train in a new way
• Technology must become seamless, and companies need to become savvier about deciding what to outsource and what to develop in-house Only then will enterprises really begin to reap financial rewards from their eLearning efforts
• Finally, before moving to the online environment, it is important for organizations to be aware of learner concerns and issues that are typical of this mode of delivery

Once the corporate culture is such that learning, of any sort, is a critical value, then individual learner requirements can be addressed.

Readiness of Managers and Instructors for Training
Instructors and managers generally encourage the use of eLearning programs. eLearning makes it easier for human resource heads and training directors to deliver lessons electronically and to track the progress of employees while they learn. Web-enabled training programs also allow corporate tutors to customize content and fine-tune programs for the specific needs of workers. Because of the convenience and effective results, instructors and managers are eager facilitate eLearning implementation. eLearning offers the following benefits to managers:

• Formal classroom training, on-the-job training, or self-paced tutorials can be rapidly deployed to bring everyone up to the same skill or knowledge level
• eLearning enables corporate users to break lessons down into smaller pieces so that students can more easily digest complicated concepts
• Many applications allow easy access to mentors via e-mail or chat rooms Learners can also interact with other students in seminars broadcast live over the Web

Managers should consider the following when implementing an eLearning solution:

• Training should be complemented with either a Help Desk or resource center to address individual questions regarding technology
• Learning aides, such as quick reference cards, can be obtained or developed to provide real-time help to employees during a training session
• In a highly fragmented organization, specialists can be enlisted across disparate work groups to provide more personal help These individuals would be experts in the educational software and could serve as local “experts”

It is important to note that eLearning efforts should not be considered one-time programs to level the skill sets of employees. New employees should be hired with these skills or rapidly trained in order to ensure the prolonged success of eLearning.

Prerequisite Skills for eLearning
Learners should understand the nature of the online learning environment and all that this entails. Prior to moving to eLearning environment, participants should have a basic level of proficiency with the following:

• Use of the Windows operating system
• Basic word processing and spreadsheet skills
• Use of Internet search engines
• Use of online libraries and reference materials
• Ability to determine the credibility of a referenced Website

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