Lack of proper computer training in small to medium enterprises (SMEs) is costing millions annually. Software is not being used as it is intended and productivity is low. The solution is proper software training.
But the downside is the fact that training can be too expensive for SME`s and the time is not available to send staff on courses. SME`s are generally short on staff, and find it difficult when employees are off for a few days.
Now, a local network support company Netsurit has launched a computer-based inhouse program that allows staff to train at their own pace.
Wit is a Swedish system of Skills Propagation developed by M2S Sverige in Sweden. The Wit programs are interactive computer-based multimedia-training programs for Windows applications. Netsurit is the sole supplier of Wit in South Africa.
"Many people currently cringe at the prospect of a Computer-Based Training (CBT) learning tool," says Netsurit training manager Peter Jacobs. This is understandable with the poor track record of these systems to date. One of the biggest reasons for this is that many creators of CBT systems do not take into account the subject of human-computer interaction.
The developers have in conjunction with some of the leading world orginisations, done research on this subject and come up with a solution that integrates the human element into training. The Wit program is a comprehensive package, which enables students to test and evaluate their skills. This enables the student to acquire more knowledge in a short period of time.
"When the student begins, they do a pre-evaluation, so that their prior level of knowledge can be ascertained. The course is then customized for that particular person. The student then works interactively at their own pace and level on a topic and only concentrates on the topics they with which they are not familiar," he explained.
Wit is one of the few interactive multimedia-training programs where the user works exclusively in the real underlying application, as opposed to a simulated environment. This has been proven to be more effective than simulated training because of the interaction with the real application.
In other words, the learning content outpaces the teaching content. This is the principle underlying the new approach to teaching and learning.
After the course is completed, the student undergoes a post-evaluation, enabling the increase in knowledge to be documented.
Jacobs notes the biggest advantage is long after the course when the inevitable drop in knowledge sets in. The student can log onto the system from almost anywhere, and access their personal course. Training is thus provided when the student needs it. This eliminates the need for continuous revision, and increases the level of knowledge, through just in time training (JITT).
Within Wit is also built-in a powerful administrative tool for following the student`s progress, and documenting their personal curriculum, progress, evaluation results and even their levels of activity within the system. The facilitator can also customise courses for the individual or group.
"Based on Wit`s existing high network capability the second generation of Wit is even more technically enhanced, increasing the network performance by an astounding 300%," he added.
Since its launch Wit has become one of the best selling training software in Western Europe and can today boast of over 400 000 users around the world.
Share
