Describes changes in the training system at the U.S. Coast Guard Training Center in Petaluma (CA) that improved the effectiveness and the efficiency of training. Topics discussed include the Instructional Systems Design (ISD) methodology; the process of change; curriculum development; criterion-referenced instruction and testing; cost…

Evaluates the potential of optical data disks as an online training tool based on experiences with information and library studies students and end users. The discussion weighs potential benefits and drawbacks of this type of training, including user reactions, the effect of online skills development, and cost effectiveness. (nine references) (CLB)

Describes an improvement program, based on total quality management concepts, for training employees that was developed at an IBM facility. Topics include student evaluation; follow-up telephone surveys; creating an educational brochure; and automating registration and recordkeeping activities. (LRW)

Describes the development of a low-cost desktop simulator for basic training of train drivers that is being tested by British Rail. The use and advantages of digital video interactive (DVI) technology are explained, limitations of videodisks are noted, the design of the simulator is described, and future developments are considered. (LRW)

A class of 37 in-service government school teachers from the Nablus (Palestine) district was studied to investigate the effects of 18 hours of training in Instructional Designer's Competencies (IDC) on teachers' planning routine, and their students' academic achievement. A questionnaire measured IDC in five domains: analysis, design,…

A study examined structured on-the-job training (SOJT) within the organizational context of 8 Dutch firms exploring more than 500 individuals each. Between 7 and 19 individuals (trainees, trainers, supervisors, managers, and/or human resource development officers) were interviewed at each firm. The effectiveness of SOJT was found to be greatly…

Prior to treatment, a nonverbal, 8-year-old severly retarded child was confined in an enclosed crib 17 hours a day to prevent hazardous voluntary falling. (Author)

Presented are six case studies demonstrating the application of operant conditioning principles to teaching self-care skills and modifying deviant behavior in six moderately to profoundly retarded children 5- to 15-years-old in Japan. Included in the case histories, such as that of a moderately retarded 12-year-old who was toilet trained, are…

Presents a description and an evaluation of a formal training program for new catalogers that uses class sessions and a training manual in addition to actual cataloging experience. Appendices provide samples of training materials and the training schedule. (Author/CLB)

The effects of an instructional package for teaching menu planning and grocery shopping skills to a mildly mentally retarded mother were examined. After training, the mother could plan three days of nutritious meals and could locate each item required for those meals in a grocery store, with subsequent skill maintenance. (Author)

Presented are case histories emphasizing the developmental or behavioral problems of six hearing impaired preschool children whose parents were learning behavior modification techniques in a parent home training program. (Author/GW)

A within-subject multiple baseline design was used to teach a young girl with severe disabilities six target signs that were functionally equivalent to existing behaviors (e.g., leading, reaching). Teaching occurred only in the presence of behavioral indication by the subject. Results showed successful acquisition and discriminating use of the six…

The study investigated the effects of a self-instructional training package on the on-task behavior of four adults with mental retardation employed in a sheltered workshop. On-task behavior increased substantially across all subjects following the training and the behavior generalized from the training setting to the actual work environment.…

Discusses techniques for improving training program design and administration through effective evaluation. Describes three sample case studies that compare trainers, facility/location, and course content; trainee reactions are plotted on a graph. Presents trainee feedback forms that identify aspects of a session, rate effectiveness, and record…