Leading training firm Ascot Systems says the correct term should be 'collaborative training' because the emphasis is on instructor-led learning with remote sites linked into live lessons. The early innovators of IBT offered simple text with slide shows that did little to take advantage of multimedia. The arrival of high-quality video streaming and greater bandwidth means that the possibilities for visual content have grown. IBT is truly entering the multimedia age in ways that CDs failedto do. Despite the time-shift of most offerings, there is also a demand forlive education to be shared through Webcasts to thousands and potentially millions of students.
Video libraries allow latecomers to access the same material at a later time.
Audio is also an option where video adds little to the content. Microsoft, for example, is offering online learning via continuous broadcast of technical information. The most sophisticated systems can track and react to students' progress, offering a more dynamic learning experience. Not surprisingly, training commentators believe e-learning will drive costs down. Similar classroom training is likely to cost at least twice as much at present.