Online training and distance learning are mature technologies which allow for high quality training programs to be delivered over the Internet. Wherever there is a computer terminal and Internet connection, candidates can stay abreast of advances in their field, maintain certifications and update their skills. Several aspects of distance learning will be discussed in this article, these being the advantages and features valuable to customers, the hardware considerations of distance learning and the software programs to engage an online training program.
Technical training requirements are well suited to be satisfied with online programs. The EMPF for example offers distance learning programs for IPC electronics standards like IPC-A-610 CIS and IPC-A-600 among others. For example, the 610 course is an industry-recognized consensus document which defines the acceptance criteria for electronic assemblies. Customers cite that the total “cost per person” is usually reduced with online programs versus traditional seminars. Key people can avoid travel costs and the disruptions to their personal lives. Also, since the total cost is usually less, managers can have more employees or an entire department attend an online seminar and take distance courses more frequently.
Online or Distance Training is essentially content and interactivity delivered over the Internet. Of the two, interactivity is arguably the more important. For example, the EMPF delivers electronics assembly training, so the presentations center on a real time instructor who presents the technical content to the audience and fields questions (Figure 6-1). This assures that the viewing candidates can receive immediate answers to any questions. PowerPoint presentations, pre-recorded video, and live video are all used to deliver content.
There are no special hardware requirements for the candidate to utilize web based training. For most web teleconferences, Voice Over Internet Protocol (VOIP) is used. A large monitor creates a greater sense of involvement and good speakers are recommended.
Several software and networking companies provide the necessary software presentation tools. Among the products offered are “WebEx” offered by Cisco, “Connect” by Adobe, “Live Meeting” by Microsoft and “Ilinc” by Ilinc Communications.
Compatibility with the desktop computer software is absolutely an issue. Adobe “Connect” performs on all platforms, Windows, Mac or Linux. Ilinc performs on a Mac or PC. Microsoft “Live Meeting” and “MeetMeNow” from WebEx perform on Windows but not the Mac Platform. Most online programs can easily handle 15 participants and more with Microsoft handling up to 100.
For this online experience to be effective, software features like meeting capacity, desktop sharing, desktop recording and interactivity are desirable. Desktop sharing enables the attendees to share a specific element of their computer desktop with the rest of the group. Desktop recording allows the presentations to be recorded on your computer and played back at a later date. The EMPF online programs have these features.
Live video can suffer from a lack of interactivity because the presence of the instructor is missing. This means it can be difficult for the instructor to draw diagrams and highlight items as would be done with a live presentation. The solution to this is to use a “White board” and pen. This is a digitizing pad upon which the presenter can sketch and highlight items and have these items appear on the attendees computer screens.
The EMPF’s web conferencing package for distance training utilizes software that divides the computer into three sections. The main and largest section of the computer screen presents the content. This could be the video presentation, PowerPoint slideshow or other content. The upper left of the screen is the live image of the presenter, and the bottom left of the screen is a question area, where viewers can type in questions to the presenter (Figure 6-2). These questions appear on the Presenter’s screen where he can respond and answer them. Live question and answer interaction is also available.
To summarize, the EMPF offers both online and traditional training programs and both are solid and reliable methods to deliver training content. However, for convenience, cost per student, and flexibility, online programs are an attractive choice. The technology is inexpensive and the content presentation is clear. Considering that it is no longer necessary to travel, distance learning is a reasonable method for all individuals to stay current with technology and skills training.
