Janas Web-Based Learning Systems

8/2/2019 Janas Web-Based Learning Systems

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Web-Based Learning Systems:Technology, Trends, Options

Mark Janas, BS, MBA

Executive Director

ValRad, Inc.


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Web Learning/Resource Projects since 97

On-line continuing education initiative for

medical imaging technologists (eRads.com)

L & Hs WAL web-based learningenvironment (formerly 123 Web St.)

Web-based, clinical resource for medical

imaging (vNet -ValRad, Inc.)


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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 ismedia-rich training fully capable of evaluation, adaptation,

and remediation, all independent of computer platform.


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The WBT Industry

With revenues approaching $8 billion bythe year 2002, Web-based training (WBT)

is now one of the leading forms ofalternative education.

WBT/distance resource companies havesuffered with others in the tech sector, buthave seen slight resurgence since 9/11/01.

Eg, WebX $17 to $24 (all time high ~$50)


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WBT Advantages

easy delivery of training to users

multi-platform capabilities (Windows, Mac,

UNIX) easy updating of content

shift from costly programming to interface andcontent design

quicker turnaround of finished product requires less technical support

increased billing options


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WBT Advantages (Contd)

access is controllable

options for installations on private networks

for security or greater bandwidth (Intranetvs. Internet)

options to link with other training systems

supplement electronic performance support

systems (EPSS)


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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, controlusage, bill users


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WBT Components

Web Browser

Server

Content

Content Delivery (html, Flash, Java, etc.)

Competency Assessment Record-keeping


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WBT Options

Buy

Build

Something in between (eg, develop your

own web-based content & manage it in

commercial environment)


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If you want to buy.

lhcpa.com

blackboard.com

smartforce.com ucompass.com

webct.com

vitalect.com learnto.com

avilar.com


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Making an informed decision means

being familiar with Client-server vs. Web

Internet/Intranets

HTML HTTP

Plug-ins

Java Flash

Bandwidth

Databases

SQL TCP/IP

WAN/VPN

CGI Active X


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Basic Platforms/Architectures

Client-server platform

Web platform

Internet vs. Intranets


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HTML

HyperTextMarkup Language, the authoringlanguage 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, Mark was here displaysMark washere on the web page.


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HTTP

HTTP defines how messages are formatted and

transmitted, and what actions web servers and

browsers should take in response to variouscommands.

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 therequested page. (Eg, http://www.valradweb.com)


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Flash, Plug-Ins

A bandwidth friendly and browser

independent graphic animation technology.

As long as different browsers are equippedwith the necessary plug-ins, Flash animations

will look the same.

Plug-ins are portals that allow smallcomputer program to run within an html

environment. (Flash, Java applets, Active X.)


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Active X

ActiveX is not a programming language, but

rather a set of rules for how applications should

share information. Programmers can developActiveX 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 Xmore powerful (& potentially dangerous.)


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Java

Programming language with code that can

be executed independent of the machines

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.


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Databases


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SQL

Structured Query Language

SQL is a standardized query language for

requesting information from a database.


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Table Name: Members

MemberID LastName FirstName Overdue

123 Baker Todd Yes

456 Janas Mark Yes789 Doe John No

SQL Example:

SQL Statement:

SELECT MemberID FROM Members WHERE Overdue = Yes

Yields:

123

456


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CGI

Abbreviation for Common Gateway

Interface, a specification for transferring

information between a web server and aCGI program.

A CGI program is any program designed to

accept and return data that conforms to theCGI specification (can be written in Perl,

VB, Java, C.)


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TCP/IP

Abbreviation for Transmission Control

Protocol/InternetProtocol, the suite of

communication protocols used to connecthosts on the internet.

Even network operating systems that have

their own protocols, such as Netware, alsosupport TCP/IP, making it a de facto

standard.


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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 andthat the data cannot be intercepted.


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If you want to build


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Rules for Good WBT Design

1. Implement formal development process

(listen, plan, build, deliver, observe,

refine)


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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


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2. Choose media types based on learning

objectives.


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3. Provide ample opportunity for the user to

interact with the information


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4. Design products that adapt to the users

abilities and intelligently respond to the

users input.


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5. Keep in mind that people learn in a variety

of ways.


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6. Respect the learner.


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7. Test your designs on real users.


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Evolution of WBT..WBPSSWeb-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.


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WBT Resources

http://www.filename.com/wbt/index.html -

Web-based training information center
http://www.filename.com/wbt/index.htmlhttp://www.filename.com/wbt/index.html

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