Web Conferencing as a Training Tool

We all know that video enhances the quality of training. It is used by many companies today to provide training videos for learning. Web Conferencing takes this type of training to a whole new level. Web conferencing allows for 2 way communication and live feeds to present material back and foward to another over the web. Also, this technology has more to provide than just mic and video communication. Electronic boards can also be used in conjuction with web conferencing giving the user many ways to present the live training session. Most companies today consider web conferencing as a replacement for person to person conferences and we should all expect to see this type of training to be used more in the future. This web site provides web conferencing software and aids in choosing which is better for the user http://thinkofit.com/webconf/wcchoice.htm. For tips and training methods when using web conferencing, this website provides valuable information for designing an effective http://www.syberworks.com/articles/28-Web-Conference-Training-Tips.htm.

Future of Classrooms

We all see how blackboard has change the dynamics of learning into todays classroom. With the use of the web, we can now download the material we need for any lesson plan. 5 to 10 years ago I can remember taking notes and listening to lectures using paper back books and notebooks. The only thing you need today is a practicle laptop. The future of the classroom according to my research will involve the creation of classroom websites, online communication and assesment, and research conducted mostly on the web. Books, articles, and textbooks are all accesible on the web today. Here is a good website illustration trends and possible problems with the intergration of new technology into classrooms.

http://712educators.about.com/cs/technology/a/integratetech_2.htm

Avatars and Training Techniques

There is one trend that we have not touched basis on in class which is the use of avatars for training techniques. Avatars serve as a simulated person taking on a unique look or person to present information for training in a more interactive way. Avatars can create human qualities to enhance any form of presentation which in turn makes training much easier to comprehend. They can be perceived as realistic and well-liked social partners in conversations that simulate real-world interactions
Avatars are also more enjoyable to use opposed to reading material the traditional way. Avatars can also be used for e-learning or online-learning giving the trainee access to an avatar outside the boundaries of a workplace. One major example of the use of avatars is the online interactive software known as second life. Avatars are used on second life to provide a virtual training experience providing detailed instruction to all the participants in the virtual world of second life. This website illustrates some training techniques with avatars used in second life.

http://second-life-training.ahg.com/second%20life%20simulations%20using%20robot%20avatars.htm

Trends to developing technology-based training

The differences between hardware and software training can be summed up with the idea that hardware provides on hands training while software training provides more visual based training with little to no physical hands on training. Software training such as e-book, e-learning, cd-rom application provides the trainee with more opportunities to learn the material independently. However, hard ware and software need to be directed by an instructor providing a since of direction to ensure training is being conducted effectively. At the end of the day, a combination of both hard ware and software training tools will be the most effective way for training to be conducted. Hardware provides hands on training giving the trainee tangible experience for learning enhance and software training tools to enhance learning for technical studies. Companies today seek to develop technology-based training systems and e-learning to save money and ensure maximum profit achieved. Training that is effective while meeting company objectives will ensure that a company is using its resources properly. Innovative solutions with the use of technology are on the front lines with training development. The use of technology alone will not ensure that technology based training will provide a company’s desired results. A combination of traditional hands on training with the aid of technology such as cd-roms, virtual training, e-learning, and other training applications seems to be the current trend with training development today.