I was recently approached by Sam Howell of "APN Educational Media" to look at training software developed by the "Educational Multimedia Corporation" of Ireland. My interest was the Microsoft Office suite and PowerPoint in particular. The package duly arrived and consisted of the full set of CDs covering all the Office software components and NT4. Installation was a breeze. Within a space of ten minutes I was up and running.

The product is very impressive. Each title consists of a series of self-paced lessons that take the user through all aspects of the software from basic introductory activities to high level user. Each user has their own login and can return to the point they left when next logging on. Comprehensive "maps" ensure the user always knows where they are in the tutorial while self-tests ensure they are absorbing the material.

Each lesson presents a sub-window containing the software covered in the tutorial. As the 'narrator' explains each feature the software responds accordingly demonstrating exactly what the user will see when they are using the actual package. The screen has a panel at the bottom left containing the text version of the narration. I was impressed that the narration and text corresponded exactly. Many packages I have seen in the past do not meet this elementary test of "quality" multimedia. At strategic points in the lesson the user has the opportunity to take control of the interface and carry out a small task as if they were using the actual package. If they make a mistake, gentle prompts and reminders help keep them on track.

The package is extremely well thought out. It is obvious that some very talented instructional designers have had a guiding hand in its development. The only aspect I found a little frustrating was the exclusive use of the mouse for navigation. I would have liked to be able to hit the spacebar, or Enter key, or arrow keys to move around. This is a VERY minor point and one which I am sure the developers will address if a demand other than just mine is evident. This one small omission in no way detracts from a top quality product.

Who would use the package? Just about anyone who wanted to learn the basics, or hone their existing skills. The networkability of the product allows it to be either used in 'stand-alone' mode, or installed on a local area network where it can be accessed by individuals on a 'needs' basis, or as part of a formal instruction programme. Progress reports can be printed and used for assessment where required.

As with all products like this the bottom line is cost. Trainers cost a lot of money. This on-line form of training alleviates the need for large training departments. At a cost of less than 10% the annual salary of just one trainer I see a bright future ahead.

Jim Fuller M.Ed, Grad Cert. Ed. (Computer Based Instructional Design)

1999 ECAWA Computing Educator of the Year

Sam Howell - APN Educational Media - sam@edonline.com.au

Jim Fuller - jfuller@southwest.com.au

Educational Multimedia - http://www.educationalmultimedia.com

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