Computer based training advantages and disadvantages

Many organisations worldwide are looking at online training as a way of keeping people informed and engaged during the present pandemic. If people are unable to come together in groups or are working from home, is online training the answer? Well, it may be, in some circumstances. There are advantages and disadvantages of this mode of training delivery, however, the disadvantages are not always highlighted.

Before we look at the advantages and disadvantages, let us first clarify some of the terms used. There is some confusion here as there is no accepted taxonomy for all the terms used. Nevertheless, let us try to provide some clarification.

1. Distance Learning: Normally but not exclusively associated with educational institutions. You learn using study materials and online learning resources and may connect with other students via a Virtual Learning Environment (VLE).

2. Virtual Learning Environment (VLE): Web-based platform for the digital aspects of courses of study, usually within educational institutions.

3. Online learning or eLearning: Delivering all or part of a course digitally, whether it is in a school, business training or an academic distance learning course. eLearning does not usually use traditional classroom methods.

4. Blended Learning: A combination of online materials and interactions combined with traditional classroom methods.

5. Computer-Based Training (CBT): Any course of instruction whose primary means of delivery is a computer or other internet-connected device. A CBT course (sometimes called courseware ) may be delivered via a software product installed on a single computer, through an intranet, via an app, or as Web-based training.

6. Webinars: The term comes from "web-based seminar". A brief (1-2 hours) presentation or seminar delivered used video conferencing software (Zoom, ClickMeeting, MS Teams, etc.). These usually allow participants in different locations to see and hear the presenter, ask questions, share documents/slides and sometimes answer polls.

7. Online Training: This is the delivery of short training courses using video conferencing software. It involves a variety of multimedia elements, including graphics, audio, video, and web-links, which all can be accessed through the software. Courses can be on most topics, though some courses are better suited than others.

Online training has many advantages, particularly currently. There are reduced cost and increased flexibility. However, it is vital that Learning and Development professionals, HR Specialists and Leaders are aware of both the advantages and disadvantages of this type of learning. The following table is a summary of the research into this method of learning and development.

Advantages & Disadvantages

References for further reading

Andrew, L., Maslin-Prothero, S., & Ewens, B. (2015). Enhancing the online learning experience using virtual interactive classrooms. Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing, 32(4), 22–31.

Bower, M. (2016). A framework for adaptive learning design in a Web-conferencing environment. Journal of Interactive Media in Education, 2016(1), 11

Kinchin. (2012). Avoiding technology-enhanced non-learning. British Journal of Educational Technology, 43(2), E43–E48

A. Sun, A, & Chen, X (2016). Online education and its effective practice: a research review, J. Inf. Technol. Educ. 15.

Tony Buon has over 30 years’ experience in Leadership, Communication, and Workplace Psychology. He is a Consultant Psychologist, Corporate Trainer, Mediator, and Author. His website is www.buon.net

What is computer-based learning (CBL)?

Simple, really. Computer-based learning, otherwise known as CBL, refers to learning – any form of learning, that involves computers.

Another name for computer-based learning is computer-aided instruction.

How about advantages and disadvantages of CBL?

Advantage of Computer-based Learning

1 The computer-based learning course can be taken at your own pace of study. Often, depending on the course, there is no particular start or end date, and you, as a student, can take as long as you like to complete the course.

2 You can choose when and where to study. You can study at 2am or 2pm. You can study weekdays or at the weekends. You can study at home or at work.

3 For many computer-based learning courses there’s plenty of multimedia usage thereby making it more interesting for the student. For example, video content.

4 Again, depending on the course, there may be activities like online games or interactive quizzes to boost knowledge and help with understanding.

5 Some courses utilize pre-assessment so that courses can be better tailored to student need.

6 Motivation can be improved through personalized targets being established. This can help with personal course progress.

7 Computer-based courses that are distance learning cater to students that are perhaps located too far from traditional learning venues, and to those that have hectic daily schedules, maybe because of kids or work.

Disadvantages of Computer-based Learning

1 It can prove to be tricky to maintain momentum and to regain motivation to continue to study over the longer term.

2 Depending on the course, for the most part, computer-based learning courses don’t involve much physical, hands-on interaction. Training is mostly of an audio-visual format.

3 Linear-type computer-based learning courses can prove to be frustrating to the student because some sections of the course the student may already be very familiar with.

4 Computer-based learning entails little interaction with other students. However, many CBL course now include forums for students.

5 Computer-based learning courses don’t tend to be pressurized in order to complete the course materials. Many students find this to be de-motivating.

6 Some students have a tendency to “skip-read” course content as a way to complete the course asap. Obviously, in this case, depth of learning is going to be fairly superficial at best.

7 Because there’s little to no interaction with fellow students, for some, CBL courses are boring and they soon lack motivation.

8 For some activities/ courses, hands-on is the only way to learn. For example, driving, swimming, etc. Computer-based training courses can only provide support here. As an example: Improving your technique.

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Advantage of computer based learning	Disadvantages of computer based learning
The course can be undertaken at their own pace so other students have no affect on personal progress	Keeping up the momentum and motivation may be difficult
Course can be undertaken at a convenient time perhaps in the evening or a gap in the day.	Course may too simple or too advanced for their current level of knowledge
Computer based training can make excellent use of multimedia to make it more interesting. e.g. video clips.	Training is mainly audio-visual with very little physical practice. Although there are 'follow-along-with-me' kind of training such as a cooking video.
Progress through the course may be tracked, allowing the student to pick up from where they left off	If the course if linear, then it may be frustrating to have to do sections they already know about
Student may be able to use activities such as interactive quizzes or games to practice	Very little interaction with other students, although some courses provide a social / forum area for members
May make use of pre-assessment in order to receive a tailored course	Critical dates may be missed due to lack of pressure to complete the course and yet some courses may be compulsory e.g. health and safety training or what to do in the event of a fire..
Personal targets may be set to help with motivation and get a sense of progression.	May skip-read the course just to complete it, so depth of learning may be limited
An interactive course may include feedback and assistance from a real tutor, depending on the type of course being undertaken	Course may be boring due to the lack of interaction with other people.
Distance-learning computer courses offer access for students too far away to attend traditional learning venues. e.g. children living in a remote part of the Australian outback	Some things need to be learnt by doing e.g. swimming, driving. Computer based training can only be a supportive measure in this instance e.g. tips for better technique.