Technology in Learning and Training

Technology has really become a game changer in the way we learn and train.  These technologies have influenced the delivery of training, training administration, and training support (Noe, 2013).  This blog will discuss several technologies used in training and their impact in the field of training and learning.

E-Learning

With the advent of the Internet and affordability of computers and their common presence in the work place, organizations and individuals can take advantage of e-learning.  There are several benefits to e-learning like, its accessibility any time and any place, it can be delivered to geographically dispersed personnel, and it can be delivered to more employees in a shorter period of time (Noe, 2013).  Many organizations embrace e-learning because it cuts down on cost (i.e., equipment and travel expenses) and allows employees to complete any training at their own pace and convenient time.  For adult learners returning to college or seeking certifications, e-learning provides the flexibility for them to fit learning into their every day schedule.    

     

Wikis

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A wiki is a website that allows many members to create, edit, and share content (Noe, 2013).  Wikis are a good tool to use to share information so other can learn informally.  Since wikis can be accessed on the web, members can view and edit content at their leisure.  Some wikis allow visitors to leave comments which can foster deeper collaboration and insight in the topic.  Consider a wiki page for the medical field.  This would allow experts from around the world to share their knowledge and ideas about symptoms and surgical procedures.  These ideas could help brainstorm solutions for cures and improved procedures.    

Simulations

When it comes to simulation technologies, the most common application is flight simulators for training pilots.  Flight simulators allow pilots to train and practice their skills in a safe environment without the risk of damaging a multimillion dollar aircraft.  Simulators help trainees with the decision making process when presented with real-life scenarios.  The military uses simulator training methods to train a variety of skills.  There are simulators for convoy operations as well as counterinsurgency techniques.  Simulators are a powerful tool that provide realistic training and can be delivered via games on a computer or training devices.  These games and devices allow leaders and personnel to understand the immediate consequences of each decision as well as how each decision can contribute to or deter from the effectiveness of other actions (Noe, 2013).  

Mobile Technology

Who doesn’t have a smartphone nowadays?  Mobile learning refers to formal and informal learning delivered on a mobile device like a tablet or smartphone (Noe, 2013).  YouTube offers many short videos from how to do car repairs to tutorials on playing an instrument.  Apps are now being used to deliver training.  According to Noe (2013), combat medic teams use an approved App for details on specific medical procedures like controlling bleeding.  With everyone holding some sort of device these days, mobile technology can make access to information and training very easy.   

Virtual Reality

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http://www.basicknowledge101.com/categories/virtualreality.html

Is virtual reality (VR) technology just for entertainment or does it have value in the field of education?  VR is relatively new and making its way as a training tool.  Reynard (2017) states that VR technology is still evolving and moving more into the mainstream…but its effectiveness in classrooms is still being realized.  VR is very similar to simulators in that simulations become realistic and the user can interact with components (Noe, 2013).  The benefit of VR is that it can provide first-hand virtual experiences for students (Reynard, 2017).  When used with groups, participants can share learning and ideas from the shared virtual reality experience (Reynard, 2013).  Virtual reality equipment can be expensive so only time will tell if the benefits will out-weigh the costs.

References

Noe, R. A. (2013). Employee training and development (6th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw Hill.

Reynard, R. (2017). THE IMPACT OF VIRTUAL REALITY ON LEARNING: As virtual reality goes mainstream and provides new ways for students to interact and gain hands-on experience, it's important to experiment and demonstrate the technology's potential learning benefits. Campus Technology Magazine, 30(6), 33-36.