Exploratory nondestructive evaluation (NDE) research for advanced materials and processes: Volume 3 -- Interactive multimedia computer based training (IMCBT) for nondestructive evaluation/inspection (NDE/I) personnel. Final report, 1 July 1995--30 April 1998

Interactive Multimedia Computer Based Training (IMCBT) for Nondestructive Inspection (NDE/I) Personnel: Computer Based Training (CBT) is a highly effective method for industrial training that has been growing in popularity. Text, graphics, sound, movies and animation enhance the learning activity. Interactive Multimedia CBT (IMCBT) allows students to learn in an environment where the training material is presented on a computer workstation and uses student interaction and feedback in the learning process. This technology has been used in the aerospace industry for aircraft maintenance and flight training and is growing in many operation training areas. The cost of development of IMCBT material is significantly more expensive than traditional training material, but an hour of IMCBT material can contain more information than an hour of traditional training material since information is transferred faster and with higher retention. Because IMCBT delivers training at lower cost, the overall benefit of IMCBT has been found to be in the range of 40% to 60% cost savings. The application of IMCBT for NDE/I training did show an overwhelmingly positive acceptance of the incorporation of IMCBT for NDE/I personnel within existing training structures. A CD-ROM package called INSPECT (Interactive Student Paced Eddy Current Training) has demonstrate various advancedmore » aspects of potential IMCBT lessons. The INSPECT CD demonstration was reviewed by Air Force and industry professionals, as well as a group of high school students to gauge novice response. The prototype was found to be appealing and to have significant potential as a useful teaching tool. A large majority of the professional reviewers stated they would like to have complete CBT modules like INSPECT for some aspect of their NDE/I training.« less