June 2003 — Features
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The Realities of Web-Based Training
- Individuals must think, respond, problem solve, use critical reasoning, interact and be creative to fully participate in WBT.
- Individuals may feel more in control of their own learning, thus possibly taking on more responsibility.
- Individuals gain access to real-world examples, databases, experts and additional sources of information online.
- Individuals are able to reflect in greater depth on responses to questions or activities posed in training before making their answers and opinions public to other participants.
- WBT emphasizes a learner-centered approach to training versus simply logging the number of hours spent in training.
Cross-platform and varied software
- Individuals may be positively challenged by actively navigating the online environment and learning new technologies.
- Training may be accessed on several computer platforms, including Windows, Macintosh and UNIX.
- Training may be accessed using many of the common Web browsers, including Netscape Navigator, Internet Explorer, America Online, Lynx and other free proprietary software.
Cost
- Overall training costs are often cheaper for participants due to eliminating travel and facilities fees.
- WBT is less expensive when considering the districtwide and worldwide distribution of training, in relation to the limited number of participants in a traditional classroom environment.
- WBT can be easily updated and "recycled" for additional training at a nominal fee.
Accessibility and equal opportunity for all
- The standardized nature of WBT equalizes delivery of the materials for all individuals.
- Opportunities to attend training are created for individuals with disabilities and others who may be excluded due to time, geography or mobility.
- Multimedia such as graphics, video and audio can enhance learning and understanding, as well as be adapted to individuals with various learning styles.
- Individual characteristics such as physical disabilities remain anonymous to other participants, thus eliminating judgments and stigmas often associated with particular disabilities.
Constraints of WBT
While WBT provides several benefits over traditional face-to-face training, there are a number of disadvantages associated with this form of training. Below are factors one should be aware of when considering WBT for their students or staff (Hall 2000; Horton 2000; Gold 1997; and Ligle and Madey 1997).
Flexibility and time
