NetDimensions Insights

Talking about Instructional Objectives

Preem — Tue, 06 Jan 2009 05:24:23 +0000

Dr. Will Thalheimer will be talking about instructional objectives on January 9th, 12PM EST

Getting a Netbook?

Preem — Fri, 26 Dec 2008 04:19:48 +0000

I have been trying out some of the sub-notebooks (also known as netbooks) for a while. These computers are becoming very popular both for their portability and the cost(usually priced below USD 400).

Amazon’s bestselling computer list is dominated by netbooks.

I have been using them both for work and play and trying to figure out if they can replace my larger and heavier notebook.

If you are frequent traveler, netbook with their weight (usually half that of a regular notebook) and the form factor are indeed tempting. Add to that the battery life on some of the newer models - 4 to 5 hours. So can we use them as a primary computer yet.

The usage scenario where netbooks are not suitable

1. If you work requires using large propriety software. Most netbooks run on a simple Atom processor running at 1.6 Ghz. So it will not be run programs that need complex processing. For example CAD tools.

2. If you need to keep multiple windows open and frequently need to toggle between them. The display resolution on netbooks are around 1024 X 600 pixels. If you have keep multiple spreadsheets open or edit between 2 or 3 word documents simultaneously, then netbooks are not for you.

Situations where netbooks are great

1. If most of your work is on browser based tools.

2. If you mostly show PowerPoint presentations rather than create presentations.

3. If you end up editing or authoring Word documents while traveling. Netbook screen can be kept open comfortably even on a cramped budget airline seat.

Some things to look out for while getting a netbook

1. While buying a netbook, check out the keyboard. Try to get one with a keyboard that is properly spaced.

2. Try to get one that has a six-cell battery. Six-cell batteries will last for 4 to 5 hours per charge.

3. I found Google’s Chrome browser a better alternative to IE and Firefox. Chrome’s user interface is minimal and shows more of the web page compared to other browsers.

Steps to Creating Game Based e-Learning

Preem — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 16:13:40 +0000

Rupa at eCube lists 6 quick steps to Creating Game Based e-Learning.

Taking Screenshots on the iPhone

Preem — Tue, 23 Dec 2008 09:14:18 +0000

IPhone’s browser renders images and text beautifully making it the device of choice to demonstrate your mobile learning pages. Publishers are increasing showing iPhone screenshots of their software or web content in publicity materials. But how does one go about taking screenshot on an iPhone?

Step 1: Press and hold the Home button. Keep holding it, don’t release it.
Step 2: Now press and release the Sleep/Wake button on top. You will see a flash on the screen. This means that the screenshot has been captured.
Step 3: Release the Home button.

Look for the Photos app on the iPhone. The captured screenshot appears under the Camera Roll photo album.

If you want to take a similar screenshot on the Blackberry then check out How to Capture Screenshots of your Blackberry Screen

15 Questions for SME

Preem — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 16:44:15 +0000

15 Most Important Generic Questions to ask Subject Matter Experts when designing an Educational Simulation

Clark Aldrich explores 15 questions that might help while interviewing subject matter experts for educational simulations.

Pushing Performance Podcast

Preem — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 07:26:23 +0000

Podcast: Pushing Performance: an “how-to guide on influencing your employees to do the things that will make your organizational successful. You’ll learn what really motivates your employees (tip: it’s not just money). You’ll also learn how to design reward and recognition programs that push performance to the next level.”

Making Wikis Work

Preem — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 16:53:05 +0000

Informationweek has an article that talks about companies making wikis work sucessfully for them.

Ditching Powerpoint?

Preem — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 07:10:03 +0000

Presentation Zen asks Is It Finally Time to Ditch PowerPoint?

Twitter Demographics and Possible Use in Training

Preem — Wed, 10 Dec 2008 15:18:53 +0000

Twitter, the microblogging service is fast becoming a great tool for people to ask questions and get answers.

The above demographic data (from Compete) is from earlier this year but it hints at Twitter as a good medium for people in their 20s to 30s which is where usually new recruits fall in.

Jeanne Meister has some ideas on how organizations can use Twitter to aid training.

The Children, Skills and Learning Bill

Preem — Mon, 08 Dec 2008 10:51:41 +0000

The government in the United Kingdom plans to give employees the right to ask time off for their training and skills upgrading.