Questions or Comments?

 E-Mail the Editor

E-News

July 2006

Focus on Blended Learning

Improve Training Effectiveness and Reduce Training Costs

by Ray Mikulak

Companies can save hundreds of thousands of dollars by using web-based or computer-based training (CBT).  By using CBT, the costs of a live trainer (or if the training is conducted off site, tuition and travel costs plus time away from the job) can be avoided.

In addition, CBT courseware ensures that uniform training is delivered to all learners and can adapt to a number of different learning styles because the training is self-paced, interactive and personalized. Industry studies have shown that the use of CBT reduces the time it takes to cover a topic and actually improves learning retention when compared to traditional classroom training.

According to studies conducted by the American Society of Training and Development (ASTD), "when you allow an employee to learn at their own pace, with technically correct and consistent training methods (the strength of CBT), the results speak for themselves. The retention rate is higher (25-50%), the transfer of knowledge is greater (applying skills on the job) which relates to job performance improvements (15-25% improvement) and there is a significant cost savings (as much as 45% or more).”

However, we are strong advocates to using a blended learning approach - where our CBT courses are followed up with some type of application activity.  In this issue of our newsletter, Robin McDermott discusses what blended learning is, how and why it works and how you can use it in your training efforts.

For more information on online training, please visit our On-Line Training Resource Center.

Ray Mikulak is president of Resource Engineering, Inc.  You can contact him at 800-810-8326 or 802-496-5888 or by e-mail.

Product Focus from Carolyn Burke

Upgrades!

For almost a year now, we have been working on upgrading all of our programs.  Content in several of the programs has been upgraded, more interactivity has been built in throughout the courseware, graphics have been upgraded and new features such as a hyperlink table of contents have been added.  The feedback we have received from customers has all been very positive.  We have also worked to reduce some of the most common technical support issues with both our web-based, and computer-based versions. 

Web-based customers get instant upgrades when we integrate the new course files into our Learning Management System.  Customers using our CD-ROM or Network versions have been contacted and offered upgrade specials.  If you are a CD-ROM or Network customer and you have not heard about our upgrades, give me a call and I would be happy to let you know how you can upgrade to our new version 3 courseware. 

Carolyn Burke is Sr. Customer Service Representative.  She can be reached toll free directly at 866-791-1003 or by e-mail.

Coming Soon!

  • Champion Training  Perfect for Lean/Six Sigma Champions:  Covers what champions need to know in a concise training program.

Ask Robin

What is Blended Learning?

Blended learning means two forms of learning have been combined to create a more effective learning solution.

Today, the term "blended learning" usually refers to a training approach that combines online training with traditional instructor-led training.

How are CBT and instructor-led training combined to create a blended solution?  We asked some of our customers how they approach blended learning using our courseware.  Several reported that they have learners use our CBT courseware as Part 1 of a two-part formal training experience.

As Part 1, the CBT courseware provides the learner with a uniform foundation in the basics for the topic and serves as a prerequisite for Part 2.

Part 2 of the blended learning solution is an instructor-led application workshop tackling real on-the-job issues.

For example, if the training focus is on mistake-proofing, the trainer (instructor) would use existing data to identify recurring problems in the learner's work areas and prepare a workshop intended to mistake-proof the recurring problems.

During the workshop, the learners (trainees) would be presented with a mistake-proofing opportunity dealing with a target from their work area.

The trainer facilitates the workshop, helping the workers mistake-proof the target.

By the end of the workshop, the learners have turned the concepts and techniques learned in the computer-based training into a job skill because they have actually used what they learned on the job.  At the same time they have added value to the operation by mistake-proofing a recurring problem!

 

I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand." ~Confucius

 

In essence, the CBT courseware replaces traditional instructor-led classroom training eliminating the costly and time-consuming chore of delivering the same basic training classes over and over again. The instructor (black belt, engineer, or quality professional) can then use his/her "found" time (the time previously spent conducting classes) to help learners connect theory to application by applying their new knowledge to their jobs and thereby improve performance.

For more ideas on how you can integrate a blended learning approach in your training plans, please visit our On-Line Training Resource Center.

Robin McDermott is director of training for Resource Engineering, Inc.  You can contact her at 800-810-8326 or 802-496-5888 or by e-mail.

What's New?

Wish you could login to start your training RIGHT NOW but you don't have an account?

No problem.  You get instant access to training courses when you purchase them through our on-line store.
 

QualityTrainingPortal Home  |  Print  |  Subscribe/Unsubscribe  |  Contact Us  |  Privacy

© 2006 Resource Engineering, Inc. All rights reserved. Please contact the editor with comments about this newsletter