Behind the Scenes: Multimedia in FlexTraining
You have video, you’re making video, or you’re
searching for video to incorporate into your online training. But what video
format do you need? The answer probably depends on what video players are
available to your student base.
However, your choice is not limited by
FlexTraining. Any of the major video formats, including Flash, Windows Media
Player, Real Player and Quick Time, can be embedded into the sequential
construction of learning screens in the FlexTraining course authoring screens.
No separate window is needed in order to play some
of these formats. The integrated multimedia learning screen will deliver these
formats within the viewing panel of FlexTraining and maintain the navigational
transition of the course section!
What are the advantages for you?
1.
If your company prefers
one of the major formats over the others, there is no need for a conversion to
meet the preference of the
2.
If you have access to a
mix of video formats, they all can be utilized.
Another use of multimedia involves expanding the
application of the Learner Exercise template, which is used to reinforce important
points and engage the student through interactivity with the content. We often
think of this as a Learner Exercise “Question” template - ask a question and
then use the four response options to provide one correct answer and three
incorrect answers. This can also be used as a “branching” or multiple option
template. Any multimedia object from the FlexTraining Media Library can be
linked to the four response options in the Learner Exercise template.
Instead of asking a question, the learning screen
can also branch to targeted presentations. For example, here are two possible
scenarios and response links:
Scenario One - Click on the letter that matches
your job description
A.
Medical Staff - (Flash
movie specific to medical staff)
B.
Security - (PowerPoint specific
to security department)
C.
Administrative - (Quick
Time movie specific to administrative staff)
D.
Volunteer Services - (Flash
movie specific to volunteer personnel)
Scenario Two - Click on the options to learn more
about this product
Whether it’s easy integration with the major video
formats or using multimedia items to reinforce content and create learner
interactivity, the FlexTraining integrated multimedia tools are keeping up to
meet the expanding and changing needs of training professionals everywhere.
FlexTraining
Version 6.2 Now Shipping
National Training Systems (NTS) is
now shipping Version 6.2 of its popular and scalable FlexTraining Total
E-Learning Solution. The updated version of this universally adopted E-Learning
system includes complete architectural updates and re-design, as well as
interface enhancements and other usability changes. The new system adds value
and promotes rapid learning for its extensive base of existing global users, as
well as prospective customers evaluating the options available when
implementing an online training initiative.
Most notable in the new 6.2 release
is the complete rewrite, from the ground up, of the robust
Scott Cochran, NTS General Manager,
says "This version of FlexTraining will provide the foundation of our
customers’ learning systems for years to come. It is solid, flexible, and
designed for endurance." Cochran also stressed that
future versions of the FlexTraining system will be more easily created
and supported now that the current restructuring is complete.
Beyond the re-engineering of the
product from a technical perspective, FlexTraining version 6.2 also features
major redesigns in selected, heavily-used system features. For example, the
integrated course-building system was completely redesigned to be more compact and
visual. The new look and feel is designed to increase productivity for course
developers.
Also, the Media and Content shared
libraries, where course authors catalog and deploy learning materials, have
been redesigned to make content items easier to add and track. User can also
work with multiple, and very large files, more easily. Together with the new
course building features, the user experience for content and course developers
has been greatly streamlined and improved.
Numerous other enhancements have been
incorporated into the system redesign, including streamlined user interfaces, where
appropriate, and superior appearance and usability.