Maximize Training Impact with Computer-based Training Software

Computer-based training software is the key to modern learning offering scalable, interactive, and engaging learning experiences. With organizations shifting their learning preferences to incorporate computer-based training, the need for software that answers all training needs is inevitable. Choosing the appropriate computer-based training software that enhances employee learning is the top priority of the HR and Learning and Development teams. The following paragraphs offer insights into computer-based training software and its features, benefits, key factors to be considered while selecting the software, and popular computer-based training software.

Computer-based training (CBT) is an interactive training program delivered through digital platforms using software and multimedia elements to offer self-paced learning. Although it is used interchangeably with eLearning, both differ in the sense that CBT is delivered through installed programs on specific computers.

In contrast, eLearning is web-based and accessible on devices with internet connectivity. In this regard, eLearning is considered an example of computer-based training. Computer-based training software encompasses digital tools or applications to deliver training content to learners using electronic devices. The software allows learners to engage in the learning experience without requiring a live instructor.

Apart from self-paced learning opportunities that allow learners to progress at their own speed, the major features offered by computer-based training software are:

• Allows to incorporate interactive content such as knowledge checks, simulations, animations, and multimedia to encourage engagement.
• Offline accessibility by letting the software be installed on local computers, thereby enabling learning even in remote environments. Learners can access training anytime, eliminating scheduling conflicts.
• Performance tracking and assessments with built-in tests and tracking systems.
• Offers structured, efficient, and scalable training programs.

Utilizing computer-based training software has significant advantages by easily the learning outcomes of the course. With regard to corporate training, hiring managers noticed these valued traits among “employees who had invested in their careers through online learning, such as the ability to work independently (51.4%), the ability to use technology and online platforms (18.3%), and the ability to stay on task (11.2%).” (Source: Future Learn). The benefits of computer-based training software are as follows:

The major advantage of computer-based training software is that it is flexible by offering self-paced training where learners can revisit content anytime without being restricted by location or time. Moreover, the training is accessible to diverse learners irrespective of their backgrounds, learning styles, and preferences.

Another standout benefit of the software is its adaptive learning capabilities which enables personalization of content based on learner preferences, strengths, and styles. It utilizes various formats such as videos, simulations, texts, images, and audio to cater to the needs of diverse learners. In addition, computer-based training software, with its real-time performance tracking, adapts to different levels of difficulty.

Resource optimization helps organizations reduce training costs and maximize time efficiency by eliminating the dependency on human resources like instructors for repetitive training sessions and HR, cutting down costs related to travel, accommodations, printed materials, and venue, and improving employee productivity by enabling flexible and self-paced learning, and reusing digital training materials enhancing learning efficiency.

Computer-based training software ensures standardized training delivery across the organization by providing consistent high-quality content, offline access, uniformity in learning experiences regardless of location, automated assessments, monitoring progress, and structured learning paths. This standardization in training delivery reduces misunderstandings and establishes fairness

The interactive, engaging, and adaptive learning methods promote easy retention of information. The computer-based training software allows for the incorporation of learning experiences such as gamification, scenario-based learning, simulations, microlearning, and personalized learning reinforcing the learning. The interactive element encourages learners to be active participants in the learning process rather than passively consuming information.

When selecting computer-based training software, it is essential the right one answering the demands of the organization. The key factors to consider are:

A user-friendly interface simplifies navigation enabling the learners and administrators to easily access training, minimizes the learning curve, and supports learners of varied technical skill levels, thereby guaranteeing enhanced learning experience.

The scalability of the software is essential to consider when selecting computer-based training software as it supports an increasing number of learners without performance issues, adapts to changing training needs, and allows for the incorporation of new training modules, and multimedia elements.

Another key consideration when selecting computer-based training software is content format support, that is whether the software is compatible with different content types like text-based content, video, audio, simulations, gamification, and extended reality, and is accessible across various devices.

The extent to which the computer-based training software measures learner progress and analyzes learner comprehension by evaluating the training outcomes determines its efficiency. That is, the software should support a variety of question types such as multiple choice, multiple responses, drag-and-drop, etc., be adaptable to different learner types, and offer real-time feedback.

Organizations should evaluate the integration specifications of computer-based training software to ensure a dynamic sync with existing tools, thereby elevating workflow rather than hindering it. The software should integrate with LMS, HR software, support interoperability with other eLearning tools by being SCORM and xAPI compliant, and connect with cloud storage and file-sharing platforms.

Security and data privacy are top concerns of learners as enrolling in certain training programs requires personally identifiable information of the candidates. The software must ensure that sensitive data, training materials, and company information are protected from unauthorized access and breaches through data encryption and adherence to data protection rules.

There are many computer-based training software prevalent today that offer structured, engaging, and scalable training solutions. Some of them are iSpring Learn, TalentLMS, Adobe Captivate, Tovuti, LearningStone, Thought Industries, and Schoox. With varying features and specifications, this software ensures interactive and self-paced learning solutions.

In a nutshell, computer-based training software is a solution to the drawbacks of traditional instructor-led training where training is delivered through digital platforms using software and multimedia elements to offer self-paced learning. The software offers self-paced learning, interactive content (quizzes, simulations, multimedia), offline accessibility, anytime training to eliminate scheduling conflicts, performance tracking, and scalable, structured training programs for efficient learning.

The benefits include offering flexible, self-paced learning, adaptive learning paths, resource optimization by reducing costs and maximizing efficiency, standardized training delivery, and improving knowledge retention through interactive methods like gamification and simulations. When selecting CBT software, key considerations include a user-friendly interface, scalability, format support, assessment features, integration with existing systems, and strong security and data privacy measures.

Popular CBT platforms like iSpring Learn, TalentLMS, and Adobe Captivate provide structured, engaging, and scalable training solutions. By leveraging the right computer-based training software, organizations can enhance learning experiences, training processes, and empower learners by engaging in learning experiences.