Training via CD-ROM: Key to Remedial Training

ABSTRACT

With the variety of instruments used in the Safeguards field, users are required to operate these instruments on an intermittent basis—often with several months between uses. While initial training courses are useful, the extended periods between instrument use often result in diminished knowledge of its functionality. Before multimedia, users had no real ability to attend remedial training on an as-needed basis. With this in mind, long-time instrument suppliers Aquila Technologies Group and Canberra Industries have adopted a resourceful training program that combines text, graphics, and animation with the traditional media of audio and full-motion video.

BACKGROUND

Multimedia-based training is an interactive learning experience incorporating the use of either CD-ROM or World Wide Web technology (via the Internet or, more often, an internal company "intranet" using WWW protocols). Key benefits for interactive multimedia applications include increased payback, increased availability of training, consistency in training, site flexibility, and reduction in training time. Most importantly, in an international environment, interactive training is the method of choice because of the ability to bridge language and cultural differences that regular printed or classroom instruction cannot easily handle. Previous studies have shown that well-designed interactive multimedia training reduces the amount of time needed to learn, while markedly increasing retention. This provides reduced costs from instructor fees, travel, and the time the trainee loses from work, as well as improved user competence.

NEW LINE OF TRAINING

Aquila’s experience with the MIVS and GEMINI interactive training programs have shown that this method of training is more effective than linear videos because the interactive CD ROM allows trainees to make choices, see the consequences of those choices, be evaluated on their performance, and repeat the process--all at their own pace. The results are: 1) trainees can correct mistakes quickly, 2) instant feedback intensifies the learning process by reinforcing each step of the lesson, and 3) understanding, retention, and skill levels advance rapidly. Aquila and Canberra are now implementing this type of training on Canberra instrumentation as well.

Using Aquila’s GEMINI training system as a model, a new project was launched this year involving Canberra’s GENIE 2000. The GENIE 2000 project incorporated promotional/informational video with an interactive technical manual to supplement written user materials. Aquila Training Developers worked with Canberra to develop a structure for the Interactive Technical Manual. The program incorporates text, voice-over, and videos demonstrating the use and features of the GENIE 2000 in detail. A new strategy in developing this CD-ROM was to capture the actual user interface (rather than simple screen captures) with a specialized software tool, Lotus Screen Cam. Finally, the multimedia presentation was organized into four parts: 1) System Overview, 2) User Interface, 3) Special Application Packages, and 4) Service and Support. Canberra acted as technical consultants to insure accuracy, and the finished program will be released on CD-ROM for Windows 95/NT and will be made available online at Canberra’s Web Site (www.canberra.com).

SUMMARY

Aquila’s CD-ROM development process allows conversion of training materials (text, graphics, video, audio, etc.) into computer-based training applications. Complexity can range from simple information retrieval (similar to an interactive encyclopedia) to complete interactive multimedia training, incorporating tutorials, and detailed interactive scenarios complete with video and audio clips. While the CD-ROM does not replace classroom instruction, technical support, and hands-on experience, it is a cost-effective tool for remedial training demands. By providing access to multimedia-based training, safeguards organizations are likely to benefit from improved inspector competence with equipment, which leads to more efficient inspections.