Effectiveness

The potential for interactive courseware, multimedia presentation, and simulation to reduce training time, increase learning retention, and achieve high transfer to on-the-job performance is beginning to be realized in the workplace. The efficacy of these programs is evidenced by findings of the Naval Air Warfare Center Training System Division (NAWCTSD) that computerized instruction using interaction and multimedia has enabled:

• Training Time Reduction - Up to 50% less training time is needed as compared with traditional methods; an average 31% less training time is experienced across all learner and curricula types.
• Improved Transfer - Up to 30% fewer on-the-job errors occur.
• Increased Retention - Trainees show between 30% to 70% greater retention.
• Enhanced Trainee Response - Trainees gain a greater sense of mastery.
• Greater Learner Involvement - Trainee involvement is active rather than passive.
• Multiple Learning Style Use - Multiple sensory modes can be used to accommodate individual learning styles.
• Adaptive Training - Branching, nonlinear approach adapts to individual learning needs.
• Increased Learner Control - Learner control of training pace and presentation is motivating and reduces frustration.
• More Time on Task - Learners spend 45% more time concentrating on training.
• Risk Free Environment - Practice of emergency or high risk procedures can be performed in a safe environment.
  
  [List adapted from Carol Denton (NAWCTSD), and David W. Griffith, Naval Education and Training Program Management Support Activity (NETPMSA), presentations at 1995 ICE Conference.]