Using Blogs in Training

Blogs (FREE!) can be used quite successfully in instruction: for reflective activities like journaling, support for writing courses, and knowledge management tools. Here's a link to a 52-page pdf file on blogging in corporate America.

Using Mobile Text Messaging

From David Gibson's Eureka! newsletter:
Pre-workshop - Send a text message welcoming learners to their workshop.
Post workshop - Send a thank you text message for their input to the workshop.
Post workshop - Send short tips (or shortcuts if it was a systems training) once a week for the next 6 weeks adding or helping embed what was uncovered during their time with you.
Post workshop - Send links or suggestions for additional resources via a text message.

More on Podcasts

From David Gibson's Eureka! training tips newsletter:
PodCasts are audio files that can be sent an iPod or MP3 player. The great thing here is that learners can listen to the audio file while travelling or whenever is convenient for them.
Why not consider creating and sending a PodCast to learners:

--Before the workshop, explaining what they can expect during their time with you during their workshop.
--Before the workshop outlining some of the content and asking learners to carry out specific tasks prior to their workshop eg for a customer service workshop ask learners to note good and bad service they receive over the next few days and bring these experiences with them.
--Post workshop with additional resources eg web sites, reading material, a bonus idea or technique they can use in the workplace etc.

For information on creating a PodCast go to:
http://www.squidoo.com/learntopodcast/

Wikis at Work

Wikis are a great free tool to encourage collaboration, facilitate communication, and level the field by giving all employees access to an online vehicle for sharing information. Here's an article for those wanting to learn more.

www.bozarthzone.com

Check out Taskstream

The remarkably low-cost product suite from Taskstream provides "a flexible, customizable, and comprehesive electronic portfolio, assessment managment and standards-based instruction solution". VERY reasonable prices. Tell Kevin Doyle I sent you!

Embrace Your Inner Geek

I am delighted to report that Amazon has added a link straight to products for "early adopters". Though they might not always be cheap, they are awfully pretty... Those of you struggling to keep on top of it all may find this a quick way to stay ahead of the curve.

Jane
www.bozarthzone.com

Hoppin' the Pond

For my friends on the other side of the Atlantic: I'll be the keynote speaker for the Irish Learning Technology Association's EdTech 2006 in Sligo on May 25. Hope to see you there!