Education and training are traditionally performed using a classroom model. Today there is a shift from that model to one that uses computer-based technology as the vehicle for training. Discussed are academic distance education and corporate and plant safety training. Results from studies and real-world examples are used.
For centuries most education and training whether done in pursuit of an academic degree, continuing education, or applied training at the workplace has been performed using a classroom model. That is, getting a group of "students" together in the same place, at the same time with one or more instructors to direct the learning that was intended to take place. Although that model is still useful, today we are seeing a shift from that model to one that is based upon the use of technology and does not necessarily require that the education and training be conducted at the "same time and place." Using technology in innovative ways can positively impact learning, particularly for students whose learning styles are not conductive to lectures (Winn, 1990). Computer-based instruction material can also be used to replace traditional lecture and to make instruction more interesting and interactive, and even to make traditional classrooms unnecessary.
There are many terms used for technology-based education and for the purposes of this presentation the term "distance education" and "computer-based training" will be used. In distance education-based training, individuals do not attend regular classroom-based classes but perform work from where they live or work. Forms of distance education considered within this presentation are some combination of videotape, e-mail, interactive computer programs, and using the Internet to deliver voice, video, and instructional material. In computer-based training, individuals interact directly with computer-based programs to receive training and to validate knowledge gained.
The presentation is divided into two parts. Part one consists of the introduction and an overview of distance education from an academic perspective. It is possible to educate individuals without having them sit in a conventional classroom and even without traditional lectures from professors. Included are the results of a nation-wide study (which ASSE partially supported) of safety professionals regarding distance education. Purpose of this study was to determine (a) the need for graduate occupational safety and health programs, as indicated by occupational safety and health professionals, delivered by means of distance education; and (b) the best means to deliver the program from the perspective of faculty and adult students.
Part two of the presentation addresses computer-based safety and health training from a workplace perspective including the corporate and individual plant level. Practical examples of how one company uses computer-based training to conduct new employee safety orientations, refresher training, and special and remedial training will be illustrated. Covered will be training that is conducted totally at the site and through the corporate Intranet. Examples of how training modules are generated and shared across the corporation will be illustrated as well as the pros and cons of the approach.
