Objectives: Explore the potential of a web-based ‘synchronous’ (real-time) distance education programs such as Centra Symposium software, and its potential for training users of Autodesk products.

Explore the ‘asynchronous’ side of training using Symposium

• Self-Paced-Tutorials
• Video ‘Class Overviews’

Develop prototype module such as Upgrade to Mechanical Desktop V_.__ "The Shell Command"

• Explore integration of Autodesk Whip plug-in with Symposium
• Explore integration of Video Files including
• Real Media
• Quicktime
• AVI
• MPEG

Develop a supporting web-site to handle all aspects of class

• Scheduling - Interactive Calendar
• Registration
• Real-time polls for obtaining feedback on existing classes and proposed topics
• Step-by-step installation guide for the first-time participant

Evaluation: Class was taught on 5/14/98

BUILDING

• Building the class was not difficult for anyone with simple HTML and graphic editing skills. The process of creating gets easier as time goes on because…
• Many of the graphics could be "re-cycled" for other course topics
• The ability to create a "template" course could significantly reduce development time
• At the time of the demonstration, the process of "embedding" video clips in the class created difficulties with the server.

HARDWARE / SOFTWARE REQUIREMENTS

CLASSROOM / TEACHING

• Students download class ahead of time, which allows all the pages to load quickly, regardless of connection speed.
• Adjusting the audio level is complicated by separate models of microphones and speakers / headsets.
• Separate downloads of plug-ins and class content is time-consuming.
• Real-time audio is available for all participants who have support for it.
• Quizzes - Instructors get immediate feedback.
• Class-wide email through the training software.
• Chat & breakout groups add to the amount of interactivity in a class.
• The skill set a teacher utilizes varies greatly from those used in the traditional classroom.

The potential of web based, synchronous training is waiting to be exploited. Software, like Centra Symposium, allows teachers with minimal graphic and HTML skills to develop, edit and teach classes on-line. With features including audio streaming and video integration the level of interactivity has skyrocketed.

Synchronous Computer Based Training is an ideal tool for upgrade training of previous users.