E-learning is the use of electronic educational technology in learning and teaching. Conceptually, e-learning is broadly synonymous with instructional technology, information and communication technology in education, EdTech, learning technology, multimedia learning, technology-enhanced learning, computer-based instruction, computer managed instruction, computer-based training, computer-assisted instruction or computer-aided instruction, internet-based training, flexible learning, web-based training, online education, virtual education, virtual learning environments, m-learning, and digital education. In usage, all of these terms appear in articles and reviews; the term “e-learning” is used frequently, but is variously and imprecisely defined and applied. These alternative terms are all linguistically more restrictive than “educational technology” in that they refer to the use of modern tools, such as computers, digital technology, electronic media, networked digital devices and associated software and courseware with learning scenarios, worksheets and interactive exercises that facilitate learning.
Educational technology had already made its first grand leap into the future long before the internet.
Since back when computers were the size of a small room, people had sensed the new technology’s potential for educational use. They began to experiment with it and make plans on how to use it to enhance the human learning experience.
By then, many pioneering educational theories had promoted the practice of individualized learning. It was a much different approach than classroom-based, teacher-led processes. Learners would interact with the learning material on their own, take brief tests in-between and receive automated feedback to self-check their progress.
However, individualized instruction methods were still difficult to implement to large groups of learners.
Computer technology made that possible for the first time. Computer scientists combined the new tech with earlier visionary theories, and soon, they developed the first ever computer-based training software.
From then on, things took their course.
What is Computer-based Training?
Usually referred to as CBT, computer-based training (also known as computer-based learning or computer-based instruction) is an interactive instructor-less educational process.
Practically, learners interact with various types of learning material via computer. Computer-based training courses come in different shapes and forms. They can be multimedia-enhanced textbooks, tutorials, practice drills or even micro-world simulations. The learning material comes in computer-based training software packages. To access and take these courses, learners have to know how to use such software.
CBT training has been around for as long as computers have. However, CBT’s roots can be traced back to preexisting individualized training approaches. Programmed instruction and mastery learning, for instance, possess some of the basic traits that define computer-based training:
– Delivering small chunks of information in a step-by-step manner.
– Prompting learners to respond to a lesson periodically, e.g., by taking brief tests.
– Providing learners with feedback on their responses or overall progress.
– Allowing learners to take courses at their own pace.
– Setting learning prerequisites for moving on to the next lesson.
By combining such methods with computer software, training programs that put the learner in charge were finally possible after the 60s. Later on, as computer-based training software evolved, CBT could be provided on-site via local networks.
However, it was still quite costly to design, build and implement. That’s why most computer-based training examples from that era involve specific uses like training people in how to use software applications.
In the 90s, as the use of internet became widespread, things were pushed forward once again. Computer-based training could now be delivered online and reach learners everywhere via the world wide web.
CBT was taking a new form: web-based training.
CBT vs. WBT
Strictly speaking, web-based training is a type of CBT training. But if we had to separate the two, we would use the term “computer-based training” in its traditional sense and focus on their defining differences.
That is, WBT’s online delivery and vast potential for user interactivity.
Browser-based training, anytime & anywhere
Thanks to modern browser-based applications, web-based training courses are readily accessible to all types of computers and smart devices. Powered by web technology, WBT can reach people everywhere and bring together dispersed learners and instructors in virtual classrooms.
Instructor-led training, collaborative workshops, webinars and various hybrid-learning scenarios are possible with WBT’s interactivity, communication, and teleconferencing capabilities.
Web-based training programs deliver dynamic media-rich content, either native or imported from various web sources. That content can be updated or improved at any given moment. Even during the training process, either by instructors or learners themselves.
Software-based training, standardized & secure
On the other hand, computer-based training courses are offline, individualized, and self-paced learning activities. They are software-based (the related term used to be “courseware”), and free from connectivity issues, bandwidth demands, and online distractions.
Their content is part of the CBT software package, and its upgrading depends on the manufacturer’s support. CBT courses are standardized, and cover subjects that learners can study individually, as computer-based training does not allow for user interaction or blended learning situations.
Deployed locally, computer-based training software can only be accessed on site by authorized users. Therefore, it does not affect infrastructure security.
Offline computer-based training is less agile, easy to deliver and “hip” than its modern web-based version.
Nonetheless, it is a tried-and-tested method for companies of any type or size to train large bodies of employees on site. CBT training is manageable, highly secure and capable of producing immediate and tangible results. A possible asset to any company that truly invests in their training.