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1. Technology-based training is a training method that includes the following delivery channels:
Web-based training, computerized self-study, satellite or broadcast TV, and video, audio, or tele-conferencing.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

2. The use of technology for training is becoming more popular in both Canada and the United States, albeit it is doing so
at a relatively slow rate.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

3. Carlos is looking for an online safety certification program. One significant criterion for Carlos is the ability to
complete the course content at his convenience; hence, flexibility is key. Carlos should look for a synchronous computer-
based training program as a viable option.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

4. An electronic performance support system is simply a digital variation of a traditional performance aid.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

5. According to the textbook, an electronic performance support system has several advantages over classroom training
including better transfer of training rate.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

6. Webcasts are used primarily for presentations, while web conferencing and webinars are often used when greater
audience participation is required.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

7. Many organizations prefer a webinar over a seminar given the lower costs associated with lodging and travel.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

8. Generative learning allows individuals to initiate and control what they learn, when they learn, and how they learn in a
collaborative environment.
a. True
b. False

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ANSWER: True

9. One of the shortcomings of Web 2.0 technology is that it does NOT provide learners with the opportunity to share files
for joint work and group completion of tasks.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

10. Personalization refers to structuring the training program so that trainees feel they are engaged in a conversation with
the program.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

11. “Just-in-time” training is a term in the textbook that embodies one of the salient benefits of computer-based training
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

12. Computer simulations are being used across a variety of training themes, including soft-skills training for various
skills such as leadership, sales, customer service, and financial services.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

13. Computer-based training is simply a flavour of the month approach to training. Its longevity is in serious doubt,
particularly given the low level of transfer.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

14. Review of the literature on “self-paced learning” is mixed; some studies support the linkage between self-paced
learning and satisfaction with the training process, while other studies appear to indicate the opposite.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

15. Learner control is when a trainee controls the content, sequence, and pace of training.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

16. One of the key benefits of computer-based training is the system’s ability to record participation and trainee results,
which may allow a company to limit its liability should it have to prove employees in fact completed specific training
activities.
a. True
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b. False
ANSWER: True

17. The major disadvantage of computer-based training for organizations is the cost of system maintenance, especially for
sophisticated multimedia programs.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

18. The ability of trainees to choose between classroom and computer-based training appears to be a determining factor
when comparing the effectiveness of these two methods.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

19. Based on information provided in the textbook, studies that compared computer-based training to classroom
instruction found that, on average, computer-based training was 12 percent more effective than classroom for teaching
procedural knowledge.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

20. Self-paced online delivery or e-learning is the most used technology-based training method.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

21. MOOCs are courses that are available on the Internet and are usually free and have limited enrollments.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

22. A community of practice is a social system in which individuals interact to share and develop knowledge.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

23. Microlearning involves small amounts of bite-sized chunks of focused information to meet several learning outcomes.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: False

24. Two examples of synthetic learning environments are virtual reality and virtual worlds.
a. True
b. False
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ANSWER: False

25. Adaptive learning tailors and adjusts training content and material to the specific needs of trainees.
a. True
b. False
ANSWER: True

26. What is the most used technology-based training method?

a. self-paced online b. collaborative online
c. instructor-led online d. self-paced computer-aided off-line
ANSWER: a

27. Which of the following scenarios is NOT aligned with the definition of “technology-based training” offered by the
authors of this textbook?
a. trainees in a classroom with a live instructor use laptops to follow a PowerPoint presentation developed by the
instructor
b. John learns how to assemble an engine using a simulator
c. two trainees use a wiki to acquire and share documents
d. Luke decides to take an online asynchronous course on worksite safety
ANSWER: a

28. Which statement best describes the state of technology-based training in Canada?
a. it has not surpassed instructor-led training; however, as a training method, it is increasing in popularity
b. it has increased over the last decade with most companies using it exclusively
c. nearly 95 percent of organizations report that e-learning is becoming more important strategically to their
organization’s learning strategy
d. 15 percent of organizations offer some form of self-paced online learning or e-learning
ANSWER: a

29. As part of a training program, a trainer uploads an article for review. She then asks trainees to provide feedback on
content during a chat session. What type of training is being used in this scenario?
a. instructor-led b. asynchronous training
training
c. e-learning training d. synchronous training
ANSWER: d

30. Which of the following is a potential disadvantage of synchronous training?

a. trainees often lack motivation given the non-interactive nature of this
training
b. trainees may not learn all there is to know, or learn the wrong things
c. trainees may waste time
d. trainees lose flexibility to pick when they will train
ANSWER: d

31. Which of the following is NOT an advantageous feature of self-directed learning?

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a. organizations have control over trainees’ acquired level of expertise
b. trainees’ learning style preferences can be leveraged
c. the trainer’s role becomes more of a facilitator
d. trainees become more independent learners
ANSWER: a

32. Which computer-based training method was used by KPMG to train its staff in lieu of classroom training?
a. in-class computer-assisted b. train-the-trainer
training
c. EPSS d. webinar
ANSWER: c

33. What is one benefit of an electronic performance support system?

a. only the information that is needed is given
b. it is particularly useful for low-turnover jobs
c. it provides most benefit to tasks that are
routine
d. only jobs that are done frequently will benefit
ANSWER: a

34. ABC Inc. has a sales force that is dispersed across Canada. ABC has contracted a world-renowned sales expert to
conduct training sessions with all its employees. The VP of human resources asks you for a cost-effective training method
that would allow the training to occur without incurring transportation and lodging cost, while retaining some element of
human interaction. What method would you recommend?
a. EPSS b. virtual classroom
c. self-directed learning d. asynchronous e-training system
ANSWER: b

35. What action did Scotiabank undertake to ensure greater engagement during its interactive training sessions?
a. offered everyone a small financial reward for attending
b. provided pre-session information to each trainee to establish a common purpose
c. included quizzes and employee participation in opinion polls during training
d. paid careful attention to ensure employees’ learning styles were considered
ANSWER: c

36. Your company has decided to use video conferencing as the preferred training method. As a training expert, you are
very much aware that this method of training has one main shortcoming. How would you mitigate this potential
shortcoming?
a. by ensuring trainees know how to use the system given it is complex
b. by having a facilitator on site
c. by having trainees from different levels of the organization in the same location
d. by keeping the number of trainees to a maximum of ten in any one location
ANSWER: b

37. What type of web format would you use if you were going to provide a presentation to a group of trainees?
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a. webinar b. Web 2.0
c. web conferencing d. webcast
ANSWER: d

38. Which of the following would NOT be considered a best practice when designing effective virtual training programs?
a. use short modules followed by application of module content on the job
b. delivery should have two-way communication
c. use multimedia content to illustrate complex concepts
d. the ideal number of trainees should be fewer than 35
ANSWER: d

39. You are putting together a list of variables that impact the effectiveness of a virtual training program. Which of the
following variables is likely to be the number one item on your list?
a. diversity of trainees b. ensure you use at least two design factors
c. how the training program is d. ensure you are using the latest technology
designed
ANSWER: c

40. Volvo and Sprint value their brand and how they are viewed by customers. Which design factor is referenced in the
textbook as being used by both of these companies to emphasize their brand image?
a. role play b. stories
c. games d. computer
simulation
ANSWER: b

41. Which instructional method describes the process of addressing individual trainees’ preferences and needs?
a. customization b. stories
c. personalizatio d. individual feedback
n loops
ANSWER: a

42. When reviewing the design of a computer-based training session, the trainer turns to the computer programmer and
says, “please make sure the text explaining the correct sales sequence is placed near the diagram demonstrating the five-
step sales process.” Which principle that covers many aspects of computer-based training design is the trainer
referencing?
a. the multimedia b. the contiguity principle
principle
c. the modality principle d. the personalization
principle
ANSWER: b

43. What might trainees experience during computer-based training when they lack face-to-face interaction with an
instructor and other trainees?
a. social loafing b. lack of motivation
c. Frustration d. lower self-efficacy
ANSWER: b
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44. Which of the following statements relating to feedback is supported by evidence provided in the textbook?
a. feedback may in fact take away from the learning experience in computer-based training
b. there is a positive relationship between feedback and trainees’ learning
c. when using computer-based training, it is extremely difficult to design training programs that provide the
trainee with feedback
d. evidence is somewhat mixed on the effectiveness of feedback in supporting the trainee’s learning experience
ANSWER: b

45. Which of the following is NOT a design principle for computer-based training?
a. multimedia b. contiguity principle
principle
c. modality principle d. customization principle
ANSWER: d

46. According to the textbook, what is the salient issue associated with the modality principle?
a. trainees learn primarily via text presentations
b. place text and graphics in close proximity to each other
c. audio technology, rather than on-screen text, should be used to present
information
d. ensure the material is relevant to trainees
ANSWER: c

47. Which of the following terms describes a self-initiated and learner-controlled form of collaborative learning in which
individuals in a social network share ideas and information, and in the process solve problems and create new knowledge?
a. self-initiative learning b. social learning
c. generative learning d. microlearning
ANSWER: c

48. Computer-based training offers organizations and trainees several advantages. Which of the following is NOT viewed
as an advantage of computer-based training?
a. it is standardized and consistent
b. it reduces training costs when there are large number of
trainees
c. it links training to job performance
d. its effectiveness of training design
ANSWER: d

49. What is one disadvantage of computer-based training identified in the textbook?

a. does not accommodate different learning styles
b. training cannot be easily customized
c. cost savings from technology may not
materialize
d. learning outcomes are not easily measured
ANSWER: a
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50. Given the potentially high development cost associated with computer-based training, what would you include as a
salient factor when justifying this expenditure to senior management?
a. training will be a one-time event
b. employees are located in a central location
c. a majority of trainees are not computer literate
d. a large pool of trainees are geographically dispersed across
Canada
ANSWER: d

51. Web 2.0 technologies provide potentially significant benefits for stakeholders. Which of the following is NOT one of
those benefits?
a. helps with data aggregation and analysis
b. provides access anytime, anywhere through web hosts and portable/wireless delivery
mechanisms
c. leverages the usage of a variety of media
d. tends to restrain learner self-initiation and control
ANSWER: d

52. Under what circumstances are classroom instruction and computer-based training equally effective?
a. when the trainees are all close in age
b. when the trainees are all equally educated
c. when the trainees are taught with the same instructional methods
d. when the trainees are trained with experienced trainers
ANSWER: c

53. Which of the following is NOT an accurate depiction of online and distance education?
a. It can include text, graphics, and videos. b. It lacks class interaction.
c. It can include discussion boards. d. It can result in earning a degree.
ANSWER: b

54. Which of the following statements is aligned with evidence provided in the textbook comparing computer-based
training to classroom instruction?
a. overwhelming evidence indicates trainers prefer online methods
b. online training is more effective when the learning outcomes are based on procedural
knowledge
c. trainees are more likely to be satisfied with classroom instruction
d. both methods are equally effective for teaching procedural knowledge
ANSWER: d

55. What is the main concern associated with computer-based training from the perspective of Canadian companies?
a. whether computer training is here to stay or is a fad
b. little evidence supports its effectiveness, hence return on investment is likely to be negative over the long run
c. the up-front cost of development, especially for sophisticated multimedia programs
d. the high level of dissatisfaction associated with computer-based training, particularly from training
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departments in large organizations
ANSWER: c

56. You have a friend who has told you that he is going to take lots of courses through the use of MOOCs. What is your
friend talking about?
a. online courses that are free and have open enrollments
b. online courses that are part of a degree program
c. courses that can be taken online or live in a classroom
d. online courses that are inexpensive but only for qualified
students
ANSWER: a

57. You have a friend who has told you that her organization asked employees to join a group to share similar concerns
and problems and meet regularly to share their experiences and knowledge, learn from one another, and identify new
approaches for working and solving problems. What is this called?
a. social learning b. generative learning
c. knowledge d. communities of practice
sharing
ANSWER: d

58. Which of the following are examples of synthetic learning environments?

a. synthetic reality and virtual b. virtual reality and augmented reality
reality
c. virtual reality and virtual worlds d. manipulated reality and simulated
reality
ANSWER: b

59. If an organization was concerned about trainees taking courses that are unnecessary and wanted trainees to take only
computer-based courses that they need and would benefit from, what should the organization consider when designing
technology-based training programs?
a. generative b. microlearning
learning
c. adaptive learning d. adaptive guidance
ANSWER: c

60. You have just joined an organization that offers many training and development programs. However, in order for you
take any courses, you need to log into the company’s intranet and identify and register for courses you are interested in
and then take them when you are ready to do so. What is the organization using to administer and deliver its training and
development programs?
a. a training and development system b. a human resource system
c. a training delivery system d. a learning management
system
ANSWER: d

61. Identify and briefly describe the benefits and limitations of self-directed learning.
ANSWER: Self-directed learning has several benefits, including allowing trainees to learn at their own pace and

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determine their desired level of expertise; reducing training time by letting trainees learn what is relevant to
their needs; helping trainees become more independent learners; and providing options that can help trainees
learn according to their preferred style of learning. Some of the limitations of self-directed learning include the
danger that trainees might learn the wrong things or receive incomplete information; wasting trainees’ time
while searching out required resources on their own; and an overall increase in time invested in acquiring the
skills required to gather knowledge.

62. Briefly compare and contrast technology-based training and traditional training methods.
ANSWER: Technology-based training can be defined as “anything that uses technology to deliver lessons.” Traditional
training by contrast is “anything that does not involve the use of technology in delivering lessons.” The focus
of the chapter is on those technologies that are key to delivery, such as Internet, Intranet, electronic
performance support systems, and video conferencing, as opposed to technologies that are often employed in
the classroom, such as multimedia presentations. The use of technology-based training is steadily increasing in
organizations; however, it is not fully replacing more traditional training methods as some had predicted it
would.

63. Define the terms “synchronous training” and “asynchronous training,” and provide an example for each.
ANSWER: Asynchronous training is training that is pre-recorded and available to trainees any time and from any location,
and would include things like text, graphics, and animation available on a company website for use in a
training program and that can be viewed either from home or work at the trainee’s convenience. Synchronous
training is offered in real time and requires trainees to be at their computer at a specific time, and would
include things like web-based video conferencing where trainees interact live with each other and the trainer.

64. Why would a company use synchronous training given that it is much less flexible (from the trainee’s perspective)
versus asynchronous training?
ANSWER: It may be less flexible; however, companies with dispersed workforces will save on travel and lodging
expenses.

65. Define and describe at least two advantages and disadvantages of online and distance education.
ANSWER: Online and distance education describe methods in which information is communicated from a central source
to individuals or groups at locations separate from the source, and usually involving the use of technology. It
is advantageous for trainees who live in remote areas or who do not wish to travel to a central training site, for
trainees who wish to receive training without having to wait for sufficient numbers in order for a classroom
course to be offered, and for trainees who have scheduling restrictions due to work or family commitments.
Disadvantages of include the potential for the training to not be finished because of a lack of trainee
motivation, and that the cost of developing courses may be prohibitive to the organization.

66. From the perspective of proper instructional design principles, discuss factors that need to be considered when
designing technology-based training programs.
ANSWER: In order for technology-based training to be effective, it must incorporate adult learning principles, active
practice, and the condition of practice. For example, interactive features (simulations, for example) must be
built in that actively engage the trainee, and where possible choices in how to interact with or navigate through
the training materials should be provided. Opportunities for feedback are important to provide trainees with
important information on their learning progress. Finally, consideration must be given to the motivation level
and self-efficacy of trainees, and steps taken to ensure the trainee is both prepared for and capable of
successfully completing the training.

67. a) What is an “electronic performance support system”?

b) Describe how an electronic performance support system may be used by a salesperson in supporting greater sales for a
company.
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ANSWER: a) EPSS is a computer-based system that provides access to integrated information, advice, and learning
experiences. It is basically an old-fashioned job aid delivered via technology—in short, it provides employees
with quick and easy access to what they need to be effective at their jobs.

b) Students may provide a wide range of possible ways an EPSS might facilitate increases in sales. However,
some of the more robust answers should include the following:
- information is accessed only when it is needed by the salesperson (saves time)
- salespeople may access an intranet page where they can download content to a mobile device or a computer,
hence facilitating sales presentations (convenience and speed)
- if the company offers a wide number of products, salespeople may refresh their knowledge about products
and services not frequently sold
- videos may be downloaded to demonstrate to the customer how the product works, etc.

68. You have been tasked with developing a virtual training program for your company. What are some of the “best
practices” you would integrate into your program design?
ANSWER: Students may draw on the various points highlighted in Trainer’s Notebook 7.1 such as design a series of short
modules—about 60 to 90 minutes—each followed by a work assignment that immediately applies the learning
to the job; move from monologue to dialogue for the delivery; ensure that the delivery is interactive; include
multimedia content; keep the classroom size to a maximum of 20 to 25; attempt to model programs on the
structure and style of a phone-in radio show.

69. Describe online and distance education and discuss two new developments.
ANSWER: Online or distance education involves the use of computer technology and the Internet to deliver
educational content and courses. Online courses can include text, graphics, and videos as well as
quizzes, and downloadable materials. Many online courses also include discussion boards for
students to post questions, comment on course material, answer questions, and receive instructor
input. Class interactions can also be included by having designated discussion times that involve the
entire class. Two new developments are massive open online courses (MOOCs) and small private
online courses (SPOCs). Massive open online courses are courses that are available on the Internet
and are usually free and have open enrollments. Small private online courses focus on more specific
topics and are offered to smaller and more targeted audiences. Enrollment is limited and the content
can be customized and directed to a specific group of employees.

70. What are synthetic learning environments (SLEs)? Discuss two examples of SLEs.
ANSWER: Synthetic learning environments involve the use of technology-based training media that augment,
replace, create, and/or manage a learner’s experience with the world by providing realistic content
with instructional features. They provide trainees with realistic synthetic experiences to enhance
learning and performance. Two examples of SLEs are virtual reality and augmented reality. Virtual
reality uses computers to create an artificial three-dimensional experience that simulates and
recreates an actual environment. It uses computer graphics, sounds, and images to create an
electronic version of a real-life situation. Augmented reality involves technology in which computer-
generated virtual imagery (e.g., graphics, text, and other visual elements) is overlaid or superimposed
onto a real-world environment in real time. It integrates physical reality with digital information to
augment or enhance certain aspects of the environment. Unlike virtual reality, augmented reality
contains some aspect of reality and is designed to augment the real environment with information
integrated into the individual’s real world. Virtual reality creates an artificial environment that
replaces the real world while AR supplements and augments the real world.

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71. What is mobile learning and what are its advantages and disadvantages?
ANSWER: Mobile learning involves the use of mobile or portable technologies such as iPods, MP3 players, and
smartphones for training. The main advantage of mobile learning is that employees can obtain
information and training at any time and from any location. It makes learning accessible across time,
location, and device and it is especially useful for microlearning, which can provide just-in-time or
on-demand learning content. A disadvantage of mobile learning is the potential for distractions from
the environment. Distractions can reduce a trainees’ ability to attend to the training content and
interfere with learning and retention.

72. What is learner control and what effect does it have on learning? What can be done to make learner control more
effective for learning?
ANSWER: Learner control refers to the degree to which the trainee has control over various instructional
features during a lesson or training program, such as the content, sequence, and/or pace of training.
Trainees can choose the content they want to view, the order in which they will view the content,
enter and leave training as they choose, and progress at their own pace. It enables trainees to manage
the learning process themselves and make decisions about what and how much to study and practice.
Although there is some evidence that learner control has a positive effect on trainee motivation and
satisfaction with training, there is also some evidence that too much learner control can detract from
the learning experience and have a negative effect on learning because trainees do not always
accurately assess their level of knowledge and make bad decisions such as skipping over important
sections of the training, and terminating study and practice sessions before they have completed the
training and learned the required material. There are a number of things that can be done to make
learner control more effective for learning. Trainees should be provided with some structure and
guidance so that they know what content to learn and the best way to learn it. This type of guidance
is known as adaptive guidance, which is an instructional strategy to assist trainees in making
effective learning decisions. Trainees are more likely to learn and less likely to drop out of training
when they begin training with a plan for when, where, and how much time they will devote to
training and when they follow through with their plans. Self-regulation prompts can also help
trainees make better use of learner control because they encourage them to regulate their learning.

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