The perceived usefulness of WebCT training for Public Management students at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT)

• Main Authors: Marais, L, Johannes, H
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: Journal of Public Administration 2005
• Subjects: Electronic Research Centres (ERC); WebCT tools
• Online Access: http://encore.tut.ac.za/iii/cpro/DigitalItemViewPage.external?sp=1000906

At previous conferences in the subject field of web-based teaching and learning a number of presenters emphasised the importance of training to users of WebCT, as well as the unsuccessful implementation of WebCT tools and applications due to insufficient training. To address this important and basic step of successful use of WebCT, third year Public Management students at the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) received intensive training to make use of particular WebCT applications comfortably. The focus, pertaining to WebCT activities in the subject Public Human Resource Management, is primarily on on-line assignments and e-tivities, as well as the use of quizzes for self-assessment. The WebCT training subsequently focuses primarily on the use of the assignment and quiz tools in WebCT, additional to the use of general tools such as the bulletin board and calendar. The paper will outline and explore the various steps and applications, used to enhance WebCT training to these students. Special measures were implemented to accommodate a large group of students (200). Furthermore, the perceived usefulness and value of a Camtasia Studio training DVD, compared to face-to-face training in the Electronic Research Centres (ERCs), will be explored. This article aims to focus on the end results and success in terms of the experiences and perceptions of the students, as well as skills obtained by the provision of intensive training for the use of particular WebCTtools. It will determine by exploring a number of training strategies and approaches for "Creative training strategy can make a difference, this article uses interesting empirical data to illustrate the use of student training as a key success factor in the implementation of WebCt in teachning and learning environments.