Training End Users: Assessing the Effectiveness of Multimedia CBT

Abstract

End user training is one way to increase the effectiveness of end user computing and computer-based training (CBT) using multimedia technology has been touted as an effective alternative to traditional training methods. However, there has been virtually no empirical evidence that multimedia CBT is better than, or at least as good as, other training methods. This paper reports an empirical study that compared the efficacy of multimedia CBT versus other more traditional instructional methods. Multimedia CBT was not found to be as effective as other instructional methods. This unexpected outcome indicates further research is needed into multimedia CBT and into what factors might affect the success of this method of delivering instruction.