Functionality
Using the Dialogue Management System (DMS) tool set, e-learning programmes can be built and edited on- or offline. The author (the person creating a programme) only requires a web browser for on-line creation. Off-line creation is done via the PC-based Easy Dialogue Generator (EDG) software. Completed programmes can then also be accessed by the user both on- and offline.
Interactivity
Effective e-learning cannot just be an electronic page turning with a test at the end. To ensure engagement, users should be required to frequently think and give responses. We provide a wide range of interactive templates to achieve this.
Navigation
It is crucial that the user remains fully in control at all times. Navigation options include viewing a content list at any point and being able to return to completed topics, returning to a menu, revealing or hiding different sets of navigation buttons on each page, etc.
Languages
Once an e-learning programme has been approved in the base language, all text content can be automatically exported to a text document which is sent to the translators. The translated file is then automatically imported back into the programme structure to create the language-adapted version. No cut-and-paste activity is required. All character sets are supported.
Multimedia
All types of multimedia components are supported. However, when considering the use of multimedia, it is very important to consider bandwidth issues, technical requirements and the cost of updating (and translating) programmes containing multimedia components.
Scoring
Every question type for which there is a correct answer can be included or excluded in an overall score. Checks can be made within the programme to see whether a pre-defined score has been achieved and whether the user returned to parts of the programme if they failed. Within a single programme, multiple-section scores can be included, i.e. ‘at the end of section A you scored 7 out of 10, at the end of section B you scored 6 out of 10. You total score is 13 out of 20.
Randomisation
A random selection of questions can be selected from a pool of questions. All options within a single question can also be presented randomly.
Links and pop-ups
Any word, phrase or picture can be turned into a hypertext link to access supporting information on an Intranet or the Internet. Any word, phrase or picture can also have an associated pop-up window that gives further details such as definition of terms, contact details, etc.
Actions
Any response to a question can have an action associated with it, i.e. an incorrect answer could trigger an automatic e-mail to a compliance officer or a link being activated to further supporting information.
Collaboration
Online, different Power Users can be given access to a single programme with read-only or editor rights. Offline, authors can automatically export a partially completed programme to each other via e-mail.
Scripting
EDG contains a powerful scripting language that can be used to define an infinite number of variables and then manipulate their content, i.e. an author may want to store responses to exercises and then display them at some later point.
Delivery
Once a programme is ready, a release schedule it set up using DMS. This identifies the target audience, sends invitation e-mails, sends automated reminder e-mails for those who have not completed within a given time frame and can send thank-you e-mails upon completion of the programme. Access rights can be defined that determine whether the user can quit and return, re-run, print their responses or even participate in an on-line forum.
Tracking
Reports can be produced at any time that show who has done what and when, who has not started, who has not completed, time taken, etc. Reports can be broken down according to any included demographics such as job function or location.
Reporting
DMS, together with EDG, can produce a very wide range of tracking and analysis reports, both on- and offline. Tracking and reporting rights can be granted to any number of people.
