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Web-Based Learning Systems: Technology, Trends, Options. Mark Janas, BS, MBA Executive Director ValRad, Inc. Web Learning/Resource Projects since ‘97. On-line continuing education initiative for medical imaging technologists (eRads.com)
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Web-Based Learning Systems: Technology, Trends, Options Mark Janas, BS, MBA Executive Director ValRad, Inc.
Web Learning/Resource Projects since ‘97 • On-line continuing education initiative for medical imaging technologists (eRads.com) • L & H’s WAL web-based learning environment (formerly 123 Web St.) • Web-based, clinical resource for medical imaging (vNet -ValRad, Inc.)
WBT Defined Web-based training (WBT) is an approach to distance learning in which computer-based training (CBT) is transformed by the technologies and methodologies of the World Wide Web, the Internet, and intranets. Web-based training presents live content, as fresh as the moment and modified at will, in a structure allowing self-directed, self-paced instruction in any topic. WBT is media-rich training fully capable of evaluation, adaptation, and remediation, all independent of computer platform.
The WBT Industry • With revenues approaching $8 billion by the year 2002, Web-based training (WBT) is now one of the leading forms of alternative education. • WBT/distance resource companies have suffered with others in the tech sector, but have seen slight resurgence since 9/11/01. • Eg, WebX $17 to $24 (all time high ~$50)
WBT Advantages • easy delivery of training to users • multi-platform capabilities (Windows, Mac, UNIX) • easy updating of content • shift from costly programming to interface and content design • quicker turnaround of finished product • requires less technical support • increased billing options
WBT Advantages (Cont’d) • access is controllable • options for installations on private networks for security or greater bandwidth (Intranet vs. Internet) • options to link with other training systems • supplement electronic performance support systems (EPSS)
WBT Disadvantages • limited formatting of content in current browsers • bandwidth/browser limitations may restrict instructional methodologies • limited bandwidth means slower performance for sound, video, and intense graphics • someone must provide server access, control usage, bill users
WBT Components • Web Browser • Server • Content • Content Delivery (html, Flash, Java, etc.) • Competency Assessment • Record-keeping
WBT Options • Buy • Build • Something in between (eg, develop your own web-based content & manage it in commercial environment)
If you want to buy…. • lhcpa.com • blackboard.com • smartforce.com • ucompass.com • webct.com • vitalect.com • learnto.com • avilar.com
Client-server vs. Web Internet/Intranets HTML HTTP Plug-ins Java Flash Bandwidth Databases SQL TCP/IP WAN/VPN CGI Active X Making an informed decision means being familiar with…
Basic Platforms/Architectures • Client-server platform • Web platform • Internet vs. Intranets
HTML • HyperText Markup Language, the authoring language used to create documents on the WWW. • HTML defines the structure and layout of a Web document by using a variety of tags & attributes. • Eg, <I>Mark was here</I> displays Mark was here on the web page.
HTTP • HTTP defines how messages are formatted and transmitted, and what actions web servers and browsers should take in response to various commands. • For example, when you enter a URL in your browser, this actually sends an HTTP command to the Web server directing it to fetch and transmit the requested page. (Eg, http://www.valradweb.com)
Flash, Plug-Ins • A bandwidth friendly and browser independent graphic animation technology. As long as different browsers are equipped with the necessary plug-ins, Flash animations will look the same. • Plug-ins are “portals” that allow small computer program to run within an html environment. (Flash, Java applets, Active X.)
Active X • ActiveX is not a programming language, but rather a set of rules for how applications should share information. Programmers can develop ActiveX controls in a variety of languages. • An ActiveX control is similar to a Java applet. Unlike Java applets, however, ActiveX controls have full access to the WOS, making Active X more powerful (& potentially dangerous.)
Java • Programming language with code that can be executed independent of the machine’s operating system, via a virtual machine. • Small Java applications are called Java applets and can be downloaded from a Web server and run on your computer by a Java-compatible browser such as Netscape or IE.
SQL • Structured Query Language • SQL is a standardized query language for requesting information from a database.
SQL Example: SQL Statement: SELECT MemberID FROM Members WHERE Overdue = “Yes” Yields: 123 456
CGI • Abbreviation for Common Gateway Interface, a specification for transferring information between a web server and a CGI program. • A CGI program is any program designed to accept and return data that conforms to the CGI specification (can be written in Perl, VB, Java, C.)
TCP/IP • Abbreviation for Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol, the suite of communication protocols used to connect hosts on the internet. • Even network operating systems that have their own protocols, such as Netware, also support TCP/IP, making it a de facto standard.
VPNs • Short for virtual private network, a network that is constructed by the Internet to connect nodes. • These systems use encryption and other security mechanisms to ensure that only authorized users can access the network and that the data cannot be intercepted.
Rules for Good WBT Design • Implement formal development process (listen, plan, build, deliver, observe, refine)
Instructional Systems Design Process (ISD) • Needs assessment • User analysis • Interface design • Content development • Media creation • Coding (html, java) • Maintenance • Administration • Updates For detailed information:http://www.filename.com/wbt/pages/process.htm
Rules for Good WBT Design • Choose media types based on learning objectives.
Rules for Good WBT Design • Provide ample opportunity for the user to interact with the information
Rules for Good WBT Design • Design products that adapt to the users’ abilities and intelligently respond to the users’ input.
Rules for Good WBT Design • Keep in mind that people learn in a variety of ways.
Rules for Good WBT Design • Respect the learner.
Rules for Good WBT Design • Test your designs on real users.
Evolution of WBT…..WBPSS Web-based performance support systems (WBPSS) further help today's busy workers perform their jobs by integrating WBT, information systems, and job aids into unified systems available on demand.
WBT Resources http://www.filename.com/wbt/index.html - Web-based training information center