Reader questions and feedback on eLearning. Also refer to Computer-Based Training, CBT, Web-Based Training, WBT, distance learning, ESPP, tutorials, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions
Answers to Readers' Questions on eLearning:
Authoring Tools
The following 6 comments and questions have been sent in. They are listed according to date.
List of first 10 items
- Using FlashForm for e-learning
- Advantages and disadvantages
- Authorware and accessibility
- Wants free CBT tool
- Wants to have spectrum of elearning tools
- Score test in PowerPoint
Using FlashForm for e-learning
Question
December 29, 2006
Could you tell me about a product I have run across? It is called FlashForm and it looks really easy to use, but I don't see it mentioned on your site. The company web site is www.rapidintake.com. It uses Flash as it's base, but it is based on filling out forms, so it is much easier. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Thanks!
- USA
12711
Answer
It depends if you are comfortable in creating e-learning by filling out forms. Since they have a free trial, you might download it to try to input some of your training material.
Adobe Captivate ($599) works the same way, but also captures screen movement for simulating training on software applications. I tend to prefer "name brands" since often smaller companies "go away" and no longer exist. But the price difference $399 vs $599 can be a big factor.
Macromedia/Adobe Dreamweaver has a free Coursebuilder add-on that allow testing, if you are doing web-based e-learning.
I haven't tried FlashForm, but from the demo, it looked like a fairly good program. If you look into it further, let me know what you think.
Advantages and disadvantages
Question
December 12, 2004
what are the advantages and disadvantages for the using of "authoring language"?
Eunice - USA
5319
Answer
Actually, some of the new versions of programs such as PowerPoint and Dreamweaver make it easier to create usable eLearnign than some of the specialized authoring tools. Of course, tools that are dedicated to eLearning are more sophisticated and allow for better interactions and monitoring.
Authorware and accessibility
Question
June 14, 2004
Can you design an lesson in Authorware 5.0 and add accessibility to this, then put it into a web page, Can it be added to a website and can it be made accessible.
Martina - USA
3553
Answer
I'm not sure about the accessibility features in Authorware 5.0. Probably the best thing is to check the Macromedia site at www.macromedia.com to find information on the capabilities of Authorware. They also have an Authorware forum where you can get specific information about using the product answered.
Wants free CBT tool
Question
September 3, 2002
Hello sir... I would like you to give small information regarding various softwares to create CBTs. It should be versatile, with a simple Interface, and any Free products.
Tilaki - India
2968
Answer
You can make simple and inexpensive CBTs and WBTs by creating Web pages and providing links and other interactive tools.
Even if a CBT is distributed on a Floppy disk or CD-ROM, you can still make the pages as web pages. Everyone has a browser to see the pages.
To find some free products, look at www.tucows.com and search for authoring. You may find some tools to use.
Wants to have spectrum of elearning tools
Question
February 10, 2004
Hi,
I would like to know what the 'universe' of elearning options are: For example, everything from simple PowerPoint to synchronous instructor'led video classes and more importantly, everything in-between. (We're trying to create elearning for our 650 employees, and I need to know the full range of options, costs, etc.
Anything you can provide me (even a link to more info) is highly appreciated.
Thanks!
Budd -
2321
Answer
The big thing is to determine how effective your e-learning is. And much of that is determined by what your goals are and the type of training needed.
The ideal way to do it is to start small and simple and let your training evolve into what you really need. Starting with a short PowerPoint online presentation is a good way to see how many of your workers will actually use it. That also allows them to get used to learning online.
Note that video gets very expensive and is really not cost-effective for 650 learners. The eHelp arm of Macromedia has some nice packages that go a step beyond PowerPoint and are not too expensive. Check www.ehelp.com. RoboPresenter seems a good package.
Score test in PowerPoint
Question
August 13, 2003
Please help. How do you score a test in powerpoint??
Frank -
209
Answer
There may be some advanced tools to do that, but unfortunately, I don't have the answer.
If you find out, let me know.
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