This critique, by Marie Hunt and Lyn Taylor from Albury NSW looks at the ANTA Diploma in Business (Administration) Toolbox, from a facilitator and coordinator's point of view.
| CRITERIA FOR SUCCESSFUL TOOLBOX |
THE BUSINESS DIPLOMA TOOLBOX |
| Clear, uncluttered presentation |
Meets this criteria exceptionally well.
Use of untextured colour blocks aids the reader’s comprehension of contents and navigation options. |
| Components easily identified |
Each competency and its description clearly presented |
| Components easily navigated |
As above. Links and navigation tools are displayed as text links only – no unnecessary graphics. |
| Consistent page layout for all competencies |
As above, with the addition of a different base colour for each competency |
| Effective communication options |
Provides platform which is customized by organisations’s IT department. Riverina Institute added Webboard, facilitator’s photos and Email links for participants. |
| Minimise graphics |
Simple, effective graphics used only occasionally in activities. |
| Minimise on-screen distractions |
No cartoons or flashing objects to distract participants from essential on-screen information. |
| Core and elective competencies accurately stated |
One elective, BSATEM501B, stated as a core competency. |
| Up to date information |
No problems reported from facilitators or participants |
| Up to date links to electronic resources |
Resources provided are relevant and useful. |
| Task integration |
Provision of a “sample organisation” gives participants the opportunity to plan activities and research for assessments from an wholistic point of view |
| Ability to track user statistics and completions |
Number of visits to each competency may be tracked. |
| Facilitator’s guide – strategies and suggested approaches |
Useful guide provided |
| Concise instructions and activities |
Very effective – no unnecessary details. Activities can be completed in a short time. Knowledge tests and relevant preparation prior to assessment tasks |
| Variety of activities |
Drag and drop, multiple choice, text label responses, self-checking activities, case studies, post to forum. |
| Variety of presentation methods |
Audio, script to match audio, simple graphics for drag and drop and to display text labels. |
|
Choice of work-based or simulated assessment tasks |
Provides sample company ValleyView scenario for each competency.
Provides document templates to assist with various procedures.
Participants may use own work experience or projects, with ValleyView as a backup if required. |
| Ability to be used without a particular platform |
Able to be Installed on Institute server as is.
May be incorporated into alternate platform, in order to provide uniform environment for all Institute’s online participants, irrespective of their course. |
