Respected Mam,
Given below are two CBT techniques used in Power Generation Sector in particular and one general CBT technique.
Customized Instruction
Power plant operators are required to maintain company standards of knowledge and performance, leading to a growing need for time-efficient operator training methods. In the past 10 years, power plant operator training has evolved from primarily text-based computer programs to sophisticated, interactive multi-media learning aids. For example, a currently available, four-module CD-ROM course called "EPRI CBT" comes complete with video, animation, photographs, graphics, and professional narration. These computer-driven simulation and training tools can be used as classroom aids in conjunction with group training sessions, or to guide tutorial sessions for independent study. In the latter case, the training is done in-house during slow or down times at the tutee's own pace. This tool in particular contains general information about power plant turbines, specific information about some conventional turbines, and customized information about the power plant turbines where the training is taking place.
Users of these tools have found that as they learn more about how operations affect plant equipment, they can make better decisions about start-up procedures and more quickly diagnose problems. As a result, plant staff productivity increases, plant performance improves, and equipment life is extended.
One energy company, City Public Service of San Antonio has been using EPRI CBT for the past year with great success. They are taking their customization capability one step further by setting up operator competency standards based on training test results.
Virtual Control Center
A second method of efficient computer-based training involves sophisticated, realistic emulation of power systems in real time for training purposes. For example, EPRI's Operator Training Simulator (OTS) provides such a realistic copy of an energy control center that operators say it is indistinguishable from the real thing. The transportable OTS operates within an energy company's control center energy management system (EMS). Representation of the control center is exact, with the same displays, consoles, and controls used in the control room. Its models provide real-time simulation, allowing system operators to learn skills that help them operate the power grid efficiently under common and emergency situations. The latter scenarios include some that might not be encountered in a real-world setting for years, but that nonetheless are critical for comprehensive training.
Instructors guide the training sessions, monitor system reactions, and evaluate trainee progress from behind a glass wall overseeing the trainees. Trainees (usually no more than four at a time) see and hear what they would during actual power system operation. In some scenarios, the instructors, posing as power plant or substation personnel, call the trainees or vice versa, to simulate a real environment during emergency procedures.
Desktop Classroom
A third example of computer-based training involves training on a variety of topics that can be done at users' desktops. For example, in interactive distance learning (IDL) systems, students at remote sites use microphone-equipped response keypads to communicate both verbally and electronically in real time with an instructor at a studio site. Students ask and answer questions electronically, while the instructor uses a touch screen to issue formatted questions and activate student microphones. Questions and comments are heard by all the students on the network. This interactivity helps to boost student attention level and interest while providing instructors valuable real-time feedback.
One such program, the ONE TOUCH system, can handle up to 1500 remote sites, dependent on the comfort level of the user and the type of course content being covered. This training method is used for employee training in such areas as management, human resources, sales, marketing, and technical development. Compared to conventional training methods, customers using the ONE TOUCH IDL solution have reported a 100% increase in comprehension and an 80% increase in the amount of content covered.
Dipinder Singh Kalsi
MBA 1A
Given below are two CBT techniques used in Power Generation Sector in particular and one general CBT technique.
Customized Instruction
Power plant operators are required to maintain company standards of knowledge and performance, leading to a growing need for time-efficient operator training methods. In the past 10 years, power plant operator training has evolved from primarily text-based computer programs to sophisticated, interactive multi-media learning aids. For example, a currently available, four-module CD-ROM course called "EPRI CBT" comes complete with video, animation, photographs, graphics, and professional narration. These computer-driven simulation and training tools can be used as classroom aids in conjunction with group training sessions, or to guide tutorial sessions for independent study. In the latter case, the training is done in-house during slow or down times at the tutee's own pace. This tool in particular contains general information about power plant turbines, specific information about some conventional turbines, and customized information about the power plant turbines where the training is taking place.
Users of these tools have found that as they learn more about how operations affect plant equipment, they can make better decisions about start-up procedures and more quickly diagnose problems. As a result, plant staff productivity increases, plant performance improves, and equipment life is extended.
One energy company, City Public Service of San Antonio has been using EPRI CBT for the past year with great success. They are taking their customization capability one step further by setting up operator competency standards based on training test results.
Virtual Control Center
A second method of efficient computer-based training involves sophisticated, realistic emulation of power systems in real time for training purposes. For example, EPRI's Operator Training Simulator (OTS) provides such a realistic copy of an energy control center that operators say it is indistinguishable from the real thing. The transportable OTS operates within an energy company's control center energy management system (EMS). Representation of the control center is exact, with the same displays, consoles, and controls used in the control room. Its models provide real-time simulation, allowing system operators to learn skills that help them operate the power grid efficiently under common and emergency situations. The latter scenarios include some that might not be encountered in a real-world setting for years, but that nonetheless are critical for comprehensive training.
Instructors guide the training sessions, monitor system reactions, and evaluate trainee progress from behind a glass wall overseeing the trainees. Trainees (usually no more than four at a time) see and hear what they would during actual power system operation. In some scenarios, the instructors, posing as power plant or substation personnel, call the trainees or vice versa, to simulate a real environment during emergency procedures.
Desktop Classroom
A third example of computer-based training involves training on a variety of topics that can be done at users' desktops. For example, in interactive distance learning (IDL) systems, students at remote sites use microphone-equipped response keypads to communicate both verbally and electronically in real time with an instructor at a studio site. Students ask and answer questions electronically, while the instructor uses a touch screen to issue formatted questions and activate student microphones. Questions and comments are heard by all the students on the network. This interactivity helps to boost student attention level and interest while providing instructors valuable real-time feedback.
One such program, the ONE TOUCH system, can handle up to 1500 remote sites, dependent on the comfort level of the user and the type of course content being covered. This training method is used for employee training in such areas as management, human resources, sales, marketing, and technical development. Compared to conventional training methods, customers using the ONE TOUCH IDL solution have reported a 100% increase in comprehension and an 80% increase in the amount of content covered.
Dipinder Singh Kalsi
MBA 1A