Distance Learning - Cost Effective Education for Maintenance Professionals. Presented by. Perry Cabrera Infraspection Institute Ultrasound World VI

Transcription

1 Distance Learning - Cost Effective Education for Maintenance Professionals Presented by Perry Cabrera Infraspection Institute Ultrasound World VI May 12, 2010

2 What is Distance Learning? Distance learning or distance education can be defined as any situation where the student and instructor are in physically separate locations Distance learning may be conducted via a live broadcast, recorded presentations, or a combination of both Distance learning eliminates obstacles associated with scheduling and travel costs, and allows training to be tailored to an individual s specific needs

3 Why Distance Learning? Education is a critical component for a qualified workforce Costs for training and associated travel have caused many companies to reduce or eliminate employee training The past several years have seen an increased interest in distance learning due to technological advances and greater public acceptance While distance learning can provide several distinct advantages, there are several key issues that should be addressed in order to ensure that selected training meets an organization s needs

4 History of Distance Learning Distance education is NOT new - Correspondence courses in Short Hand available in US since University of London began its distance learning degree program in 1858 During 20 th century, radio, television, and internet have all been used for distance education The advent of the internet provided a whole new set of opportunities - First online degree programs appeared in late 1980 s At present, nearly every college and university and hundreds of private companies offer distance learning courses - Dozens of courses available for maintenance professionals

5 Types of Distance Learning Delivery Synchronous live online sessions where all participants are present at the same time. Synchronous training requires a set training schedule. - Web & video conferencing - Internet radio - Telephone Asynchronous instruction where participants access recorded training materials - Audio cassette - Video/DVD - Web-based recordings

6 Distance Learning Courses for Maintenance Available courses include: - Infrared thermography - Ultrasound - Vibration - Lubrication - Alignment - Motor Testing - Reliability Centered Maintenance - Root Cause Failure Analysis - PM Optimization

7 Benefits of Distance Learning Convenient Train from home or office No travel costs Recorded training Students can train at their own pace Training never varies in content, accuracy, or delivery Most recorded sessions available 24/7 May be viewed multiple times» Reinforce learning experience

8 Challenges of Distance Learning Student must be committed to training - Attend live sessions - Dedicate quality time for recorded sessions Limited interaction with other students or instructor - Can be offset with scheduled meeting time» Phone or web meeting - Questions may be addressed via Hardware/software requirements for web-based courses - Computer platform, bandwidth, browser, plugins, firewalls

9 Common Distance Learning Myths Distance learning is not as good as a classroom setting Fact distance learning can be better than live training - Recorded training prevents errors or omissions - Training can be scheduled to minimize distractions - Large live audiences can inspire better discussions - Recorded training can be viewed multiple times - Self-directed learning activities reinforce student learning

10 Common Distance Learning Myths You can t learn a hands-on technology from an online course Fact by choosing the right medium, recorded training can be very effective - How-to videos - Home improvement shows - Fishing / hunting / cooking / crafts / gardening / auto repair programs

11 Common Distance Learning Myths Distance learning is a breeze Fact Properly designed distance learning courses provide quality education that s convenient, not watered down - Reputable educators publish quality material - Content should equal that of a classroom setting - Courses should be scripted and professionally produced - Beware the informally recorded webinar

12 Web-based DL Course Types Live broadcast - Single or multiple sessions - May have audience participation - 1 to 2 hours in length - Cost varies with length Web-based recordings - Single or multiple sessions - 1 to 2 hours in length - Cost varies with length Webinars - Live or prerecorded - 1 hour or less - Free to < $100 - Quality can vary widely

13 What to Look for in a DL Course Core educational material - Live lecture - Recorded slides / videos / narrated PowerPoint Comprehensive student reference manual - Often not included with inexpensive webinar Regular testing to ensure student comprehension Self-directed assignments to reinforce practical skill sets Acceptance by third parties - CEUs, ASNT or ISO compliancy Written proof of completion

14 Choosing a Distance Learning Provider All distance learning courses are not the same Currently are no standards for distance education - Buyers must choose carefully Prior to selecting an education provider - Carefully review curriculum of subject course(s) - Consider experience of company and instructors - For live courses, determine if delivery schedule is practical - Qualify resulting CEUs or certifications - Ascertain total cost before you begin» Subscription fees» Course fees» Exam or certification fees - Obtain references from program graduates - Look for a money back guarantee

15 Things to be Aware of Distance learning is an accepted form of training Several courses are available for maintenance personnel Not all distance learning is created equal Choose supplier and courses carefully! Distance learning is a cost effective way to train your personnel

16 QUESTIONS?

17 About Infraspection Institute Independent organization providing training, certification and support for infrared thermographers Our Level I, II and III Certification courses meet the training requirements for NDT personnel in accordance with the ASNT document, SNT-TC-1A. Course options include open enrollment, on-site or web-based distance learning. Since 1984, Infraspection Institute has trained nearly 10,000 Certified Infrared Thermographers worldwide. Recognized by the US Office of Patents & Trademarks only Infraspection Institute is authorized to issue the Certified Infrared Thermographer mark to qualifying individuals.

18 How We Can Help You We support the practicing thermographer in order to help you get the most from your infrared inspection program! We maintain a comprehensive website containing thermal images, class schedules and information about thermography. For more information or to register for classes, Call: Fax: Online: