Pilot testing resulted in an overall employment rate
of 58% and an overall continuing education rate of
28% throughout pilot testing. Completers, who are
unemployed, report childcare and/or transportation
as reasons why they are not working.
Pilot testing of the EnterTech training program was
offered at 13 classes with 121 learners enrolled from
March 2000 to November 2000. Of the 121 learners in
the pilot sites, 101 (83%) completed their training.
The evaluation process showed that the EnterTech training
program enabled learners to attain the targeted knowledge
and skills related to entry-level job performance.
Learners’ overall performance indicates that
59.4% of the learners were able to correctly perform
tasks in all skill areas without significant help
from others and without significant errors. An additional
39.6% were able to integrate skills into problem resolutions
for all skill areas.
As EnterTech trainees gained employment during pilot
testing, employers, the state of Texas and the federal
government experienced monetary savings. Employers
are positive about learners’ on-the-job performance.
Employers state that EnterTech completers are more
easily trainable, more likely to stay on the job longer,
and more productive then non-EnterTech employees.
TOP
Pilot testing provided a validation of the instructional
effectiveness of multimedia-based simulation.
Learners and instructors alike reported the work simulations
and the realistic narrative storyline as both motivating
and effective.
Learners gained confidence and ease in using computers.
Team activities enhanced communication and problem
solving skills. Learners reported the personal planner
as very beneficial for managing personal life responsibilities
with work responsibilities.
Pilot testing led to refinements for full-scale implementation
of the EnterTech training program. The summative findings
are:
- Database oriented instructional technologies are
promising for both embedded assessment and prescriptive
and targeted instruction.
- Both qualitative and quantitative data are necessary
to the evaluation process.
- Compute-embedded tracking allowed for uninterrupted
assessment of learners’ performance.
- Instructors prefer flexibility in managing administration
of courseware
TOP
