Interactive multimedia training courses on Microsoft networking essentials, Microsoft NT Server 4.0 Enterprise and Microsoft Excel 97 will be available via the internet from June 8. The courses, from NETg and the KnowledgePool consortium, will be complemented with 24-hour online support from three bases in the UK, North America and Japan. Students download learning objects – chunks of multimedia courseware – over the internet or from a corporate intranet. With internet-based courses, businesses can ensure a consistent approach to training and quality of learning materials for their staff around the world, says Paul Butler, deputy CEO of KnowledgePool. The service will also benefit IT contractors and consultants who require just-in-time learning compatible with their often irregular working hours. Students can download precisely what they need, whether that’s an entire course, one lesson or just one element of a lesson, says Roy Sunley, managing director of NETg’s UK subsidiary. This puts management of their training totally into their own hands. The KnowledgePool consortium comprises ICL training arm Peritas, Amdahl and US computer training firm KnowledgePool Inc. NETg, a subsidiary of US media group Harcourt Brace & Co, develops and distributes interactive learning material covering IT and business skills. Last January, NETg and KnowledgePool announced a strategic partnership to deliver tutor-supported multimedia training. The training program’s distinctive feature is 24-hour online support centers which allow users to train in their own time. From mid-July, the internet service will be extended to cover KnowledgePool’s complete range of Microsoft training courses.
