Models of Electronic Learning in “ABCs of E-Learning” by Broadbent Research Paper

Introduction

The two models discussed by Broadbent (2002, p65) are suitable for the eLearning project. In the case of a large program, Broadbent (2002, p66) suggests that the seventeen-step process can be used; whereas, in the case of a small project, the eight-step process can be used. The size of the project would decide on the nature of the model that could be employed for the purpose. The company that has been selected is an electronic company that is implementing ERP software for their in-house computerization in lieu of the existing legacy system. When this implementation is in progress and also after completion, the staff of the company needs to be trained to use the ERP software to its capability. This would ensure that the ERP is fully utilized. Since this is not a comprehensive program but only a project of a smaller size, the eight-step process is adopted.

Model Implementation

Scope of the project

The scope of the project (Broadbent 2002, p70) is to ensure that the ERP software is implemented successfully and the users are trained to maximize the usage of this software. This has to reach users who are educated. All the users should be assembled at one point in time and the instructor should be present in a contact class. However, all this could also cost and a review would require the instructor to come back again. eLearning on the other hand could be cheaper and can happen asynchronously. Based on this reasoning and on the cost-effectiveness of not disturbing the users at a given point in time, eLearning is chosen for this purpose.

Analyze

The context of the training is during and post ERP implementation with the aim of providing the needed information to the users to enable them to maximize their usability of the software. Since there is intranet connectivity existing, the company can use the existing infrastructure for increasing the way the learning exercise takes place (Roisin Mullins, Yanqing Duan, David Hamblin, Phillip Burrell, Huan Jin, et al.,. 2007). Since the workers and users of the software are computer savvy, the training delivered through eLearning and the content would be suitable to them.

Design

The course material and content of the eLearning program need to be worked out in multiple phases. One, to communicate the entire process using books and interactive sessions; two, using either broadcast over the intranet or specific classroom sessions to substantiate the learning delivered over the network (Virginia Montecino 2007). Accordingly, the content is designed.

Develop

Based on the design of the program, the course material and content are developed by the experts on training delivery. The development is done for all the course material, content for presentation, and for other means of course delivery.

Pilot Test

The Pilot test of the course content is done with the developed version using a sample audience. Feedback from them is taken; any change in the developed course content, design, and course material is made to make it more suitable for the users. This will ensure that the users are in line with the requirements of the ERP and they are able to make full use of the software installed.

Deliver

Once the pilot testing is over and the feedback is incorporated into the contents of the program, then the course is launched. Appropriate asynchronous handling of the course is done so that there is no time loss for the company during peak working timings. Delivery is also done if needed over a classroom session.

Evaluate

Based on the delivery and on the effect of this delivery, the participants and the users of the course are requested to evaluate the program. This evaluation is done based on the usability factor, applicability to the situation, the effectiveness of the communication, and lacuna if any identified. The users are also requested to provide feedback on the possible improvements in the program that could add more value to the training. This would form the complete evaluation and could again be improved if there is a need to do so.

Maintain

If further training is required since there could be continuous and ongoing improvements in the program, then the contents of the eLearning process are carried out and the same is identified through the feedbacks obtained. Based on that and based on the improvements in the ERP that is implemented, training changes are carried out. This process has to be maintained.

Project Management

The project management in the company under reckoning could be executed without any hassles. However, some of the critical steps are:

1. The precision of the contract in the case of deliverables could lead to a difference in perceptions.
2. Since the duration available is less, the effort vs duration could create compression in the project plan.

The rest of the steps in the project management could be successfully employed to ensure that the training gets completed successfully.

Conclusion

Based on the points raised in the earlier pages, it is clear that the company is in need of a training program. The company can use the eight-step model of the analysis without really compensating for the nature of work that has to be done during the execution. The project needs to follow the steps indicated to ensure that the target is achieved within the time and the cost specified.

References

1. Broadbent, B. (2002). ABCs of e-learning: Reaping the benefits and avoiding the pitfalls. Pfeiffer. ISBN: 0787959103
2. Montecino, Virginia (2007) Computer Mediated Distance Learning. Education and Technology resources. Web.
3. Mullins, Roisin. Yanqing Duan, David Hamblin, Phillip Burrell, Huan Jin, Goluchowski Jerzy, et al., (Feb 2007) A Web based Intelligent Training System for SMEs. Electronic Journal for eLearning, Vol.5, Iss.1. Web.