An Asynchronous Training Solution

This weeks application assignment is to review a training scenario and provide solutions that will meet the needs of the situation.  I've chosen Example 3: Asynchronous Training, which states, "In an effort to improve its poor safety record, a biodiesel manufacturing plant needs a series of safety training modules. These stand-alone modules must illustrate best practices on how to safely operate the many pieces of heavy machinery on the plant floor. The modules should involve step-by-step processes and the method of delivery needs to be available to all shifts at the plant. As well, the shift supervisors want to be sure the employees are engaged and can demonstrate their learning from the modules."

The primary technology I am focusing on for this asynchronous training opportunity is a Course Management System (CMS). A secure, internet-based CMS can be used to deliver course content that includes pre-recorded media such as video podcasts. Virtually delivered instructor led classes could be recorded and housed on the CMS or purely web-based courses could be developed. Either method can be made available 24/7 through asynchronous delivery via the CMS. “Web-supported instruction allows instructors to capture class activities and archive both process and product, enabling access to course content beyond the timeframe of the course; expands opportunities for students to contribute through use of asynchronous communication tools; is readily accessible and amenable to all schedules; and encourages active learning.” (Dabbagh, N., 2002). Course content can include a series of educational video podcasts, and supporting process documentation that provides step-by-step instructions regarding how to safely and effectively operate heavy machinery on the plant floor, can be “stored on [the CMS] website for easy access.” (Simonson, et. al., 2009). Learning objectives will be based on documented best practices and the step-by-step process instructions. The chosen CMS will manage online assessments that will test the participant’s mastery of the learning objectives. This will include delivery of the online assessment, recording student completions and providing reports on student scores/performance. Additionally, we might recommend that – given the criticality of topic, safety – the company implement post-training Level 3 evaluations, such as on-site observations to ensure employees are applying the concepts and safely operating the equipment on the job. The CMS of choice will also provide a collaborative work space through the use of Web 2.0 technologies such as discussion boards, forums, wikis or blogs. (Simonson, et. al., 2009). These tools support collaborative activities such as trainee-to-trainee and supervisor-to-trainee/trainee-to-supervisor communications. Activities may include guided discussions, follow up assignments, sharing of key learning, on-going collaboration and communications regarding best practices.

For a commercial training application, Moodle (www.moodle.org ), may be an appropriate CMS option for a commercial training application. Moodle does not provide web hosting services so it would require that the company provide a web server or choose one of many secure and affordable hosting options that are available. Moodle’s Open Source Course Management System is highly scalable and can be used for asynchronous online courses and/or synchronous virtual deliveries (blended learning). This solution also utilizes Web 2.0 technology to support collaborative learning communities through tools such as wikis, blogs, and forums. Multi-media elements (video podcasts) and online assessments are fully supported. Use of RSS feeds will also allow the organization to “push” information to subscribers. “In a study conducted to see the viability of using RSS feeds in a work setting, [it was] concluded that the main benefit for using RSS feeds is that it allows information to be “pushed” to the receiver, instead of the receiver having to see the information.” (Belderrain, Y., 2006). This is a powerful way to keep learners informed and current on important topics such as safety.

References

Beldarrain, Y. (2006). Distance education trends: Integrating new technologies to foster student interaction and collaboration. Distance Education, 27(2),139–153.

Dabbagh, N. (2002). Using a web-based course management tool to support face-to-face instruction. Retrieved on November 21, 2010 from: http://technologysource.org/article/using_a_webbased_course_management_tool_to_support_facetoface_instruction/ 

Moodle Open Source Course Management System … http://www.moodle.org/

Simonson, M., Smaldino, S., Albright, M., & Zvacek, S. (2009). Teaching and learning at a distance: Foundations of distance education (4th ed.) Boston, MA: Pearson.