The Computer in Training and Development

Seldom if ever in recent history has a single technological advance made such sweeping changes in our lives as has the advancement of the digital computer. As you probably are aware, the computer itself is not a brand-new device. What is new (and growing every day) is the percentage of the population that is using computers in business and personal environments. The personal computer's popularity is growing by leaps and bounds primarily because of its availability in a small and relatively inexpensive package (several hundred dollars), placing it well within the reach of many families and small businesses. Software to perform financial analysis, solve inventory prob­ lems, or just have fun with is readily available and reasonably priced, thereby absolving inexperienced users from the burdens of programming and the technical complexities associated with it. The typical user in this scenario derives much of the benefit and experiences few of the disadvantages. Yet, as expected, the solving of a problem often creates problems, as will be discussed. Training and development personnel, like most other profes­ sionals, have not been immune to the onslaught of personal and business computers. Computer-aided and computer-managed instructional techniques (Le., CAl and CMI) are common phrases today in the realm of training and development.

I Getting Involved.- 1. A New Era for Training and Development Professionals.- Examining Our Fears First.- Fear of the Unknown.- The Personalization Concept.- Prevalence of Computers.- Conquering Our Fears.- Why Should I Get Involved?.- 2. What a Computer Is—An Overview of Hardware.- Voltages.- Voltage Levels.- Representing Intelligence.- Intelligence In Computers.- Memory: A Way to Remember Instructions.- Counting: The Computer’s way.- Counting in Decimal. Counting in Binary..- Equating Binary Numbers to Voltage Levels.- Putting Concepts Together.- Binary/Decimal Equivalency. Memory Addresses. BITS—Binary.- Digits in Memory. Larger Memories..- Reviewing Bits, Bytes, and Memory Addresses.- More Hardware Concepts.- The Central Processing Unit (CPU).- Logic Circuits.- The AND Logic Circuit. The OR Logic Circuit. Inverter..- A Simple Example of Logic Combinations.- A Simple Exercise in Logic.- A Typical System of Computer Hardware.- Summary.- 3. What a Computer Is—An Overview of Software.- The Creation of Software.- The Problem—The Need.- Writing a Program—The Logistics.- A Simple Example.- The Problem and the Program. Executing the Program..- Variations on a Theme.- Variation 1: Incorrect Sequencing of Instructions. Variation 2: Incorrect Instruction. Debugging. The Point..- Summary.- 4. Higher Level Language Concepts and Operating Systems.- The Language Concept.- Higher Level Languages vs. Machine Language.- Method 1: Machine Language.- Selection of Proper Instructions. Selection of Memory Addresses for Program Storage. Selection of Memory Addresses for Data Storage. Execution. Summary—Method 1..- Method 2: Higher Level Language.- Loading the “Translation Mechanism” (Operating System)..- Statement Entry..- Comparison of Method 1 and Method 2.- Operating Systems.- The System.- Languages and Operating Systems For Every Need.- BASIC. FORTRAN. COBOL..- Summary.- 5. Input/Output Devices.- Keyboards.- CRTs.- Printers.- Communication Protocol.- Transmission Mode.- Print Format.- Dot Matrix. Letter Quality..- Buffered Printers.- Discs.- The Disc Defined.- The Disc Unit or Drive.- Disc Organization.- Use of a Disc.- Summary.- 6. Microcomputers and Microprocessors.- What Is a Microcomputer?.- Size and Cost.- Size. Cost..- Memory Technology.- A Typical Microcomputer.- Summary.- 7. System Summary and Review.- Review of Chapter 2—Hardware.- Review of Chapter 3—Software.- Review of Chapter 4—Higher Level Languages.- Review of Chapter 5—Input/Output Devices.- Review of Chapter 6—Microcomputers and Microprocessors.- II The Use of Computers in Training and Development.- 8. Concepts of Computer-Based Instruction.- Terms for Training Involving Computers.- Computer-Aided Instruction (CAI).- Drill and Practice.- Tutorial.- Simulation.- Performance Simulation. Systems Modeling. Experiential Simulation..- Problem Solving.- Informational.- Instructional Gaming.- Computer-Managed Instruction (CMI).- Instructional Management.- Administration and Support.- Types of Software Available.- Writing Your Own Programs.- Using Other Programs to Create a Program.- Programs Often Overlooked.- Use of Purchased Programs.- Media Generators..- Contracting Someone Else.- Hardware.- Looking for Hardware.- Summary.- 9. Beginning to Apply Computer-Based Training.- Criteria For Use of CBT.- Cost Effectiveness.- Timeliness.- Subject Matter.- Target Population Size.- Student Location and Distribution.- High Interaction.- Cost and Quality Checklist.- Peripheral Devices in CBT.- Card Readers.- Light Pens.- Bar Code Readers.- Plasma Screens.- Digitizing Pads.- Key Pads (Responders).- CRT Cameras.- Interfacing with Other Media.- Summary.- 10. Case Studies in Computer-Based Training.- Case 1.- Case 2.- Case 3.- Feedback Form for Readers.