Selection of a Computer-Based Training Authoring System: Functional Requirements and Evaluation Criteria

摘要

A computer-based training (CBT) authoring system is a special kind of software tool kit for training developers to use in CBT materials. Since the late 1970s, many CBT authoring systems have been developed that serve the same purpose but have different theoretical approaches, functional features, and power. Thus, selection of an authorizing system requires a systematic evaluation. This paper proposes a set of evaluation criteria for selecting an authoring system on the basis of its functional capabilities. A CBT authoring system can be evaluated according to the following criteria: 1) its functional capability to provide computer programming aids for a training developer with minimal or no programming skills; 2) the quality of instructional design guidance available for the training developer with limited experience in instructional design and training development; 3) the system's flexibility to expand its functional capability through interface with other software tools and hardware peripherals; 4) the ease with which the system can be learned and used; and 5) the cost, including price, hardware requirements, contract conditions, and training expenses. (kr)