Delivery of a Fiber Optic Cable Repair Course by Videoteletraining.
Abstract
The feasibility of using videoteletraining (VTT) to deliver a hands-on laboratory course on fiber optic cable repair was evaluated to explore the potential for extending the use of VTT beyond lecture based courses. Three treatment groups were compared with a total of 50 students: (1) traditional classrooms, (2) VTT local classrooms with an instructor and students, and (3) VTT remote classrooms where students were connected to the local classroom by a two-way audio and video VTT system. There were no significant differences between groups on procedural errors during two connector repair laboratory tasks or on observer ratings of safety and the quality of student work. There were also no significant group differences on a troubleshooting performance test and a written examination. There was a slight trend for remote students to need greater assistance and for their laboratories to take longer. Few differences were found on a student questionnaire. An interaction tally of instructor and student questions showed little differences between groups. The evaluation showed that it was feasible to deliver the course by VTT, given the extra support requirements and marginal travel cost savings for small numbers of students. Findings relevant to delivering other laboratory courses by VTT are discussed and enhanced preparation of remote students prior to performing their laboratory work is suggested as one method to offset the reduced assistance available to remote students.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jan 01, 1996
- Accession Number
- ADA304089
Entities
People
- C. D. Wetzel
- George E. Seymour
- Paul H. Radtke
- Steven W. Parchman