Top Computer Based Training Methods

With the boom of LMS systems in the wake of the SaaS revolution, and an ever growing movement to shake old, much maligned tropes for handling education and training, people are in a rush to discover effective and well-documented computer based training methods that will allow them to realize these goals. Of course, there are a billion theoretical computer based training methods out there, and every one of them has its little circle of followers and adherents. It’s impossible to look over all of them (even the most prominent ones), and compare them. So, the best thing I can do is look at three basic models that are widely implemented these days, and explain their merits and their downsides, because they all three have both. It’s on you, from here, to decide which of these seems the most suited for your needs and your situation. #1 – Gamification Gamification takes advantage of the complexities possible in modern learning Knowledge management tools, alongside the natural affinity people have to the gaming concept. The idea is to use the statistics of training as the base metrics to apply to a game, where people compete and are rewarded for advancement, not unlike tabletop gaming models that have been popular for decades. In theory, this provides agency, engagement (which traditional models do not work for), and just all out incentivizes them to succeed and grow. Gamification is very popular, and a hot topic, but truth be told, it needs some more mutual best practices defined by those who understand it in application. Right now, it’s a little open to interpretation. #2 – The Webinar and E-Course Model This is a revamped version of the classic classroom and lecture model, designed to allow for more independent scheduling, and also takes advantage of the centrality and ease of information distribution and automation which LMS systems provide. This one works well enough, but it only removes those brick and mortar dependencies, and doesn’t help with engagement or the alleviation of tedium which other models do. But, LMS systems are great at making this operate smoothly, so if you don’t mind training being less pleasant than it might otherwise be, you can be successful with this model now. #3 – Self Service Training This is a different way of thinking, and it only became practical when software to enable it became refined and marketed. Using onboard training systems like WalkMe to guide the user safely step by step through complex processes, they can learn by doing safely, and get real work done in the process. Experience-based learning like this is very effective, but until the technology to implement this on the fly was available, this model could only be pursued by having individual tutors doing repeated guidance through tasks until they mastered them. That was impractical and expensive. Now, things like WalkMe can do it affordably and efficiently. Computer based training methods are varied, and these are just the most widely used ones out there. Do look around and learn a little about some of the others before you choose an approach, because some of the others not on this list do have their merits, and one of them might just be more ideal for you than any others out there.