CBT versus WBT Training Models

The main differences between the CBT and the WBT training models (Alessi & Trollip 2001) are as follows:

CBT
• Instruction is given via the computer using media such as CDs, or downloaded to a specific computer
• Instruction is self-paced based on the student’s needs
• The cost of training is lower
• Training time is reduced
• Learner can only do training on the computer where the software is loaded

WBT
• Instruction is given via the web/internet
• Learners are given more up-to-date subject matter materials
• Communication between training participants can be either synchronous or asynchronous
• The learner and the instructor has a greater amount of multimedia to receive information/learning materials (e.g. listservs, email, etc.)
• More user control
• Inconsistency in how users connect to the web affects the quality of the multimedia being presented
• Learners have a variety of where they can access the WBTs (home, school, etc.)

CBT
http://www.download.com/Mavis-Beacon-Teaches-Typing-17-Deluxe/3000-2051_4-10441764.html
This is a computer-based program that is a typing tutorial. The learner is given typing drills and exercises, progress is monitored and feedback is given. There is a lot of interactivity along with the option of downloading the lessons to a Palm Pilot. The main drawback is that you have to have a good bit of space on your hard drive to load the program, and depending on your broadband speed the download can be lengthy.

WBT
http://www.gcflearnfree.org/
This is a web-based training course that has various lessons, including how to use Microsoft PowerPoint 2003. The instruction is broken down into comprehensible modules, adequate practice is given, knowledge checks are given throughout the lesson, and there is feedback available from an online instructor. The main drawback is that there are limited registration windows.

References:
Alessi, S. & Trollip, S. (2001). Multimedia for learning: methods and development. 3rd Edition. Needham Heights, MA: Allyn & Bacon.