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Explanation of how JavaScript can used in developing web based training (WBT). Also refer to computer based training (CBT), Macromedia Authorware, Asymetrix Toolbook, plug-ins, ASTD, STC, IICS, CGI, Ron Kurtus, School for Champions Copyright © Restrictions

Web-Based Training Using JavaScript

by Ron Kurtus (revised 11 June 1997)

One popular method for creating the interactivity necessary to teach, maintain interest and test users of Web-Based Training (WBT) is to use the JavaScript language.

Questions you may have include:

• What can be done with JavaScript?
• What are sources of JavaScript code?
• What are methods to verify knowledge?

This lesson will answer those questions. There is a mini-quiz near the end of the lesson.

CBT programs with web plug-ins

Standard CBT development programs like Macromedia’s Authorware and Asymetrix’s Toolbook have browser plug-ins that allow their CBT applications to be used on the web. Unfortunately, not only must the user have the plug-in installed, but the time it takes for pages to download is often excessive. There must be an easier way to present class content that does not strain the users’ capability to view the material.

Using JavaScript a simple solution

One solution for web-based training (WBT) is to use JavaScript to code the HTML pages and allow for some of the training interaction capabilities desired.

The advantage of JavaScript is that over 90% of all web users have browsers that can read and interpret the language. It is also very fast and does not require any plug-in or such.

Methods to verify knowledge

Methods to teach besides explanations and illustrations and the verification of knowledge that can be used in a WBT using JavaScript include:

• Multiple choice
• True-False
• Verifying text input

Feedback as to whether or not the answer is correct can be shown as an alert box or an indication shown on the browser status bar. The student’s score can also be tabulated.

Example of multiple choice

1. Why would you use JavaScript for WBT?

Sending data to the teacher

A copy of the test can be sent directly to the teacher via an e-mail submit button, provided the student has an e-mail account through the school or internet provider. A better way to get the test is through Common Gateway Interface (CGI), but that is not easy to program.

Summary

Using JavaScript is a definite solution to the problem of providing web-based training. Examples of this technique will be posted in this web site very soon.

Answers to Readers' Questions

Continually improve what you do

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?

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

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

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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Web-Based Training Using JavaScript