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Explanation of how to use JavaScript alert buttons in developing web based training (WBT). Also refer to Computer-Based Training, CBT, Intranet-Based Training, IBT, plug-ins, ASTD, STC, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions. Copyright © Restrictions

WBT Using JavaScript Alert Buttons

by Ron Kurtus (12 July 1998)

Multiple-choice questions are often used in Computer-Based Training (CBT) to test or verify a learner's knowledge, as well as to keep the person's interest in the lesson.

The advantage of such questions in CBT is that the student can immediately get feedback as to whether the answer was correct and/or what the correct answer is.

A simple way to do this in Web-Based Training (WBT) or Intranet-Based Training (IBT) is to use the alert button feature of JavaScript. This lesson will show examples of using the alert button and provide the JavaScript code.

Check if JavaScript is Available

While most browsers these days can read JavaScript, there still are people with old browsers that can't use this feature. Also, some people may have the function turned off in their browser.

You can use an alert button to let your students check if your multiple choice will work properly with their browsers.

Click this button to see if you have JavaScript available.
If there is no response, you are just out of luck.

Example of Multiple Choice Quiz

The following multi-choice question is an example of using alert buttons to let the learner know whether the answer was right or wrong, as well as to give some information about the answer.

Unfortunately, this simple method does not let the instructor know how well the student is doing. Rather, it is primarily intended to help the student's learning experience.

1. Why would you use JavaScript for WBT?

JavaScript Code

The following code was used for this example.

<HEAD>

The code placed under the HTML <HEAD> consists of the comments for the various alert windows that pop up after the given button was clicked.

<script language="JavaScript">
<!--
function AlertBox1(){
alert("Yes, you have JavaScript available.")
}
function AlertBox2(){
alert("Sorry. Multimedia doesn't work well with JavaScript.")
}
function AlertBox3(){
alert("Not right. You need to be on the Web or your Intranet to use JavaScript. Try another answer.")
}
function AlertBox4(){
alert("That is correct. You are a genius.")
}
//-->
</script>

<BODY>

The code for the multiple choice is placed under the <BODY> section, in the area you want the question.

<p><strong>1. Why would you use JavaScript for WBT?</strong></p>
<form>
<div align="left"><p><input type="button" name="B1"
value="a. So you can do multimedia effects." onclick="AlertBox2()"></p>
</div><div align="left"><p><input type="button" name="B2"
value="b. To avoid using the Internet." onclick="AlertBox3()"> </p>
</div><div align="left"><p><input type="button" name="B3"
value="c. Most browsers can read JavaScript." onclick="AlertBox4()"></p>
</div>
</form>

Summary

Using alert buttons with JavaScript is a useful tool in providing web-based training, although it has its limitations.

Answers to Readers' Questions

Teach others

Resources

The following are resources on this subject.

Websites

eLearning Resources

Books

Top-rated books on eLearning

Miscellaneous

Mini-quiz to check your understanding

1. Why is classroom training considered part of eLearning?

Videos are used instead of an instructor

The Affiliated Trainers Union requires it to be included

Blending strategies enhances effectiveness

2. What disadvantage is there to self-paced eLearning?

There is no immediate way to get questions answered

The learner may easily fall asleep during a dull module

You often have to play them more than once to get understanding

3. Why would you have a classroom session in blended sales training?

It is never used in sales training

To allow for discussion and feedback

To account for slow learners

If you got all three correct, you are on your way to becoming a champion in eLearning development. If you had problems, you had better look over the material again.

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WBT Using JavaScript Alert Buttons

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