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Computer-based Training (CBT)

  
 

What is a CBT?

A Computer-based Training (CBT) is the use of computers in instruction and has become the term used to describe asynchronous learning that is preprogrammed and involves little or no feedback from an instructor. CBTs usually refer to courses distributed on CD-ROM, but not distributed over the Web (see web-based training). Older terms that are less often used and have been folded into the definition of CBT are CAI (computer-assisted instruction) and CMI (computer-managed instruction).

 

Learn More about CBTs

 

Distance learning is very much focused on providing services and support to the learner, not the institution. If you are interested in what it takes to be a student taking courses through a distance program, the following sources will be useful to you. If you have other sites you'd like me to feature, please email the training resource library.

 

Issues in Distance Learning - Interesting look at the issues being faced by distance education practitioners with regard to the learner.

The Evolution of Distance Learning - Good introduction to the evolution of distance learning technology.

 

 

Popular CBT Development Tools

 

CBTs can be developed by one of many training development companies or can be developed using some popular tools. Each of these tools has its benefits and drawbacks.

 
Captivate is a product that eLearning powerhouse Macromedia to compete with Camtasia. Macromedia has shown itself to be a leader and Captivate is no exception. This is a software demonstration tool like Camtasia, but is much more powerful and easy to use. It records where you click, identifies the fields and page names and adds text boxes that are usually pretty accurate. Basically, it automates much of what was time consuming with other tools.

Authorware - To some this is the reigning parent of all the CBT development tools. For many types of CBT development it remains the tool that will give you a high degree of flexibility and options. As a result, it is also one of the hardest to use. To fully use its functionality, you will need to understand some of its internal programming language.
SnagIt 7.2.1 - This is the market leader in screen capture software. If you're going to buy a product to do captures for your paper-based materials or for the web, this is the best. I use it every day at work and at home.
EZ Screen Capture - If you're doing screen captures as part of your training, whether on paper or for the web, a screen capture tool is essential. This is one of the cheaper ones that offers lower functionality, but will do the trick.

Camtasia - There are several products on the market that have similar capabilities. These tools allow you to capture your interactions with software and add voice. Newest versions also allow you a wide variety of editing and production tools. One of the best features of these tools is the ability to produce a Flash format file. With a Flash file, you get interactive, animated, and low-bandwidth presentations. Camtasia has a great production interface called Camtasia Studio that allows you to edit your presentation.
 

 

Computer-based Training Bookshelf

The following books may prove useful if you would like to dig deeper into computer-based training (CBT).