Chapter 8 Homework Assignment

1. Explain how technology has changed the learning environment.
   
   New technology has changed the learning enviornment in many different ways including the costs associated with training and the effectives of the learning environment. Employees can now access training materials from anywhere via the web and also choose the type of material they want to study. Because of digital collaboration, training can given to employees in different geographic locations instead of everyone coming to a central location. New technology also allows for better communication between trainer and trainee.
   
2. What are some advantages and disadvantages of multimedia training?
   
   Advantages of multimedia training are that it is self-paced, it offers unlimited accessibility, it provides privacy and also gives immediate feedback. Disadvantages of mulitmedia training are that it is very expensive, trainees may not know how to utilized the multimedia being presented, and can be ineffective for certain content.
   
3. Why would a company use a combination of face-to-face instruction and Web-based training?
   
   A company would use a combination like this to give their employees social interaction with others, developing better face-to-face communication; while at the same time it allows for self-directed learning and simulations of real life expriences.
   
4. Using the Web, further investigate any new technology discussed in Chapter 8. Find information describing the technology, hints for developing and purchasing the technology, and examples of companies marketing and/or using the technology. Include Web addresses in your summary.
   
   Ipod's are digital media players that can trainees can use to take information with them wherever they go. One company using the ipod is Trinity Workplace Learning, which will offer training and education content. The PDA School offers live training with PDA's and offers many businesses the chance to train employees on Palm, Blackberry, and PocketPC. TeamSpace is marketing their vitual online office to businesses around the globe for project planning and coordination, connection of mobile employees, and support for work groups.
   
   http://www.internetnews.com/ent-news/article.php/3571426
   http://www.thepdaschool.com/Business.htm
   http://www.teamspace.com/groupware-examples.html