Selecting Distance Learning Technologies

Example 3: Asynchronous Training

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.

“Today’s workplace requires that individuals create and collaborate within the constraints of time and place. These needs have given way to technological advancements that allow for real-time communication among peers and co-workers who stay connected over the Internet. It is no coincidence that these same advancements bring a fresh promise to distance education. New tools promise to create a stronger learning community where members can build expertise and develop problem-solving skills”. (Beldarrain, 2006) With that being said in this asynchronous training scenario, I would have to use a multimedia format, such as streaming media training videos and materials on the Web, in order to implement the elements needed for employees to be trained on safety in the plant. This option provides a reliable video source, one which can be accessed through Internet connectivity. Simply put, placing the course training module on the Web affords employees 24-hour access and at their own convenience to training materials from any location with an Internet connection.

The online videos will provide an in-depth look at training modules and include exercises to assist employees with learning the course materials. It will be arranged by several modules or sections that will help the plant improve its poor safety record, and to comply with more stringent regulations that are aimed to protect people and the environment. Upon completion of each module the employees will be evaluated with an online assessment. After completion of the online training module and assessment, the shift supervisors will then evaluate each employee on safety as they work in the plant. This will help ensure that the employees were engaged and were able demonstrate that they have learned from the safety training module.

I found two external resources that is very similar to the solution in which I’ve just described. They showcase how these technologies have been successfully used in distance learning.

http://www.trainosha.com/
http://wisha-training.lni.wa.gov/Training/articulate/HazcomOnlineMod1/default.htm



References:

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

Safety Training, OSHA Training & Compliance Courses. Retrieved November 19, 2010 from Web site:
http://www.trainosha.com/

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

Washington State Department of Labor and Industries (2009). Hazard Communication. Retrieved November 19, 2010 from Web site:
http://wisha-training.lni.wa.gov/Training/articulate/HazcomOnlineMod1/default.htm