How to Construct Computer Based Training

Computer-based training provides a flexible educational option for many people.

Computer Based Training utilizes computer technology for access, instruction and assessment. Courses typically include modules and lessons organized in a sequential order. Constructing CBT involves utilizing an instructional system design process to analyze, design, develop, implement and evaluate the training solution. Using an authoring tool, such as Adobe Captivate (the American Society for Training and Development website lists many other options), CBT developers assemble text, graphics and multimedia elements to create course files. Students typically access files on a distribution medium such as a CD-ROM. Records of usage and assessment can be analyzed and used to validate CBT effectiveness.

Things You'll Need

• Authoring software
• Desktop publishing software
• Installation kit building software

Instructions

1. Analyze your target audience to determine their needs. Run focus groups or conduct short interviews to determine what students need to learn. Develop a plan that lists the overall goal, a content outline and a time line for developing your CBT. Write learning objectives and use action verbs to describe what students will be able to do once they have completed your CBT. Determine the prerequisite skills required to take your CBT. Identify all the steps for the tasks students need to be able to complete once they take your CBT.

2. Design your solution to meet student needs by developing a storyboard to show the flow of one screen to the next. For example, create your storyboard using a presentation tool such as Microsoft PowerPoint to describe how pages should be laid out and what components to include. Design interactive demonstrations or simulations to help students learn how to (or remember how to if they perform the task infrequently) complete a series of steps. Review your storyboard with subject matters to validate it.

3. Develop your course materials. Create visuals yourself or search through available repositories to obtain relevant images. Create animations or simulations to reinforce concepts presented in instructional text. Create your own video or schedule filming. Edit footage to reflect what you need to make it production ready. Conduct a review with subject matter experts and a test panel with users to make sure there are no typographical errors and software errors before you publish your CBT.

4. Package the files and prepare them for distribution. Create an installation kit using a preparation tool such as InstallationShield. Test your kit on all the platforms you plan to support.

5. Evaluate your CBT by analyze assessment results and student feedback. Revise your CBT based on this input.

References

• ASTD: Glossary
• Adobe: Creating Effective Software Simulations