Tech4learning

Rapid Training Simulations

Many of the rapid e-learning tools on the market today, with some careful planning, can be used to create training simulations of the type where you are trying to replicate a customer interaction, an appraisal meeting or a sales call, for example.

But if I was producing a lot of these, I'd be very interested in the KDSimStudio product from KnowledgeDynamics, not least because my first projects could use the free version of their software.  You can create your simulations by using a combination of wizards and drag and drop features.

As well as creating typical conversations with branching scenarios, you can also add in so-called "coaching tips".

The finished simulations are published in the popular Flash format.

This demo module was produced using the free version.  The free version allows you to have up to 2 characters in the simulation, but for £73 you can upgrade to their lite version, which permits up to 4 characters and an unlimited number of conversation objects.

More advanced Designer and Professional versions are on the way too.

And On Line 5 We Have...

If I was Stateside, this posting would probably be longer, but when you want to record a telephone call in the UK, and at least one party does not have access to Skype (or another VoIP service) and you don't want them to have to dial a number in the United States, then - as far as my research has uncovered - there aren't many options.

I've been looking for ways to have subject matter experts, with busy schedules and no access to suitable recording technology - assuming they had the inclination to fiddle around with any such devices - to record podcast interviews or voiceover narrations for e-learning modules.  If your organisation uses any form of digital dictation service (and you can export the recorded audio files in the correct format for your authoring tool), then that's a good option.

There's also the problem of many IT departments probiting the use of any form of VoIP service.

So whilst acknowledging this last issue, I did note a service called CallBurner.  This service allows you to record Skype-to-Skype phone calls.  You can record them to the MP3 or WAV formats, which are by far the most popular audio file types for both podcasting and rapid e-learning narration.

But what if your caller doesn't have access to Skype or can't use it from where they are located? Well, it is possible to add a "landline" number to your Skype account, called SkypeIn, so they could call that, provided you were using a Skype phone your end.  I'd work from home that day, if I was also barred from using the service at work.  You could also call them on their number (the so-called SkypeOut service).

As well as recording the full conversation, you can also have each side of the call put onto separate tracks.

If you can record Skype-to-Skype, then the service is free.  Otherwise, after a free trial period, you'll have to pay an annual fee of €50.

I'll continue to look for services similar to those in the USA, where your caller can dial a local-call or freephone number and directly record their commentary to a website, which then e-mails you the file containing their audio.