Same Technology

By using the same technology and tools for learning that are used for work, the training will be more relevant to your employees and may be more cost-effective.

When you provide training using workplace systems, employees will make a strong mental connection between the training and their jobs.  Additionally, there is more likelihood that the training will be relevant to their work and heighten their ability to use their workplace technology more effectively on the job.

Using the same technology for learning and work may also be more cost-effective than acquiring specialized hardware and software dedicated exclusively to basic skills training.

If an employee is enrolled in an apprenticeship or other trades or technical training program leading to certification, it is especially likely that the technology used would be used in their jobs.

Contact trade and professional organizations for valuable information about the technology being used in trades and technical occupations, internships, apprenticeships, certification programs, professional development and training.  For a general directory of trades and professional organizations throughout the United States, see:
    URL: http://www.acinet.org/acinet/resource/trade.htm

The American Productivity and Quality Centre (APQC)'s trained experts support your internal efforts and work with your existing teams to employ APQC's proven tools and techniques. They also educate existing process and skills "champions" in your organization on using and applying winning methodologies.
    URL: http://www.apqc.org/solutions/resources.cfm

Blue Lobster Multimedia Productions - Virtual Electrician Series is an interactive computer-based training series covering power quality issues and investigative techniques for various components of the premises wiring system. Using up-to-date information and 3D graphics, it is designed to present wiring conditions and investigations similar to those encountered in the field.
    URL: http://www.virtualelectrician.com/Free/Demo.htm

A new report by the Council for Advancement of Adult Literacy shares the views of adult education practitioners and researchers on tools and standards for building and assessing quality adult literacy programs.
     URL: http://www.caalusa.org

This article presents ideas on how to evaluate basic computer skills. Effective computer-skills training provides employees with the tools needed to perform well in their jobs, which ultimately reduces turnover and saves the company money.
     URL: http://www.workforce.com/archive/feature/22/16/72/223876.php

In the past, companies often looked to e-learning as a cheap solution, without considering its effectiveness. This article discusses the pros and cons of e-learning as a training delivery method and how companies now turn to e-learning as a strategic solution to training.
     URL: http://www.workforce.com/section/11/feature/23/62/89/index.html

Brandon Hall provides information, trends, best practices, tools and vendors about using technology for learning to help employers make the right decisions for their organization.
     URL: http://www.brandon-hall.com/

Bestimation is at report that looks at how imaginative use of calculators can enhance learning in adult numeracy classes. It suggests activities to develop estimation and problem-solving skills, providing learners with opportunities for self-directed learning.
     URL: http://www.nrdc.org.uk/publications_details.asp?ID=108

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Last updated: December 21, 2007.