WEBLOG 01

With the prevalent usage of computer-mediated technology, such as online learning and computer-based training, learning has become more accessible to a much larger audience. The concept of lifelong learning is getting easier for working individuals. Training employees in a large organization are much more cost effective, thus enriching the human capital of that organization.

In the academic setting, often it is the students that come to the institution to seek knowledge, albeit to upgrade their skills or for a career change. They reflect what the current marketplace needs and lack, thus the academic institution needs to perform the needs assessment to determine what kind of courses to offer to cater to this group of potential students.

In the corporate environment, management identifies the needs of their employees, albeit the skills they lack or needs improvement, such as updating their current skill set to adapt to newer technologies. The goal is to enrich the corporation’s human resources, instead of their employees coming to them for help; the company should act first and offer the necessary training. Thus it benefits both sides, as the company can retain their human resources, and make the employees feel they are a valued part of the company.

But management should conduct a needs assessment before implementing any new technology. They should not jump on the bandwagon just because everyone is doing e-learning, or the fact that they want to invest in technology training so they can get on the 50 Best Employer list. They need to realize the cost involved and the resources available at their disposable. There are several elements they need to consider, or else it would be a waste of time and money. Such as additional capital invested in future upgrades and continual technical support, and the willingness of the staff to learn and adapt to the new technology.

Also, there are some limits to computer mediated learning, such as vocational and practical subjects. They are all technical and applied learning subjects that require intense hands-on learning. Student-centered assessment requires the participant to actively demonstrate what they know. An example would be learning welding techniques. Although the participant can learn from the on-screen demo, it is impossible to display the techniques or skills needed to use a welding torch by simply clicking on the multiple-choice tests. It is hard to teach someone how to golf without teaching them how to hold a golf club properly; looking at a diagram in a book is very different then having the student actually swinging the golf club.

First Post

First post of AEC1131