Optimizing Learning Cost-Effectively Using Technology.

Abstract : The present paper reports a methodology and supporting tool for optimizing the use of multimedia technology to support training. Our goal is to support recent efforts to move training from schoolhouses to technology to save money and make training more readily available to sailors. Because technology development represents a huge investment, formal methods are needed for optimizing resources to meet training needs cost effectively. This includes supporting tradeoff analyses when sufficient resources are not available for the preferred technology option. We identified two Navy training technology scenarios. The first is developing technology for new training requirements. The second is converting lecture-based courses to technology-based. Accordingly, our project focused on both. First, we developed a methodology for selecting media to meet training requirements. This was supplemented by methods for projecting costs and benefits for selected media. Second, we developed a tool to estimate costs associated with course conversion. In order to be responsive to Navy needs, we established a relationship with the Chief, Naval Education and Training (CNET). Their most pressing need was course conversion. Therefore we tested our tool on a CNET-supplied course using their costing data. The results of the tool's analyses matched CNET's own.

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