Software review - Alpha Ontario
TITLE: Assessing Learning Difficulties in the Workplace
COMPANY: Dept. of Communications Media
University of Calgary, 2500 Universite Dr. NW
Calgary, AB T2N 1N4
Tel. (403) 220-3709; Fax: (403) 282-4497OPERATING SYSTEM: Macintosh and Windows
COST: Single disk $195.00 (Cdn.)
This CD-ROM is produced by the University of Calgary, the Learning Centre in Calgary and Alberta Vocational College. It is a workshop-style package that is designed to assist supervisors, workplace trainers, human resource workers and occupational health and safety teams in detecting literacy problems or learning difficulties in the workplace. Although it has a sophisticated feel to it, this product is very easy to use and install. The user is not faced with a multitude of icons, as there are just four selections to choose from in the Main Menu. The Introduction explains how this product can help you; Problem Solving Cycle explains the process of assessment; Guided Case takes the user through a learning disability case; Case Studies explore four other workplace scenarios.;
The presentation is a combination of video clips, voice-over and text. For each of the case studies, a dramatization is presented while a header tracks which stage of the problem solving cycle is being depicted: problem identification, problem clarification, development of a plan, implementation of a plan, follow-up evaluation. In addition, specific topics and concepts are highlighted throughout the case study and can be selected in order to access more information. A button for "More Information" leads to an index on these topics; e.g., ADD, Motivation, Reasons for poor attention and teamwork. At any point the user can speed up the narrative, adjust the volume, or skip to the next stage of the problem solving cycle. The case studies range from five to fifteen minutes in duration.
This package covers a wide range of topics by means of the case study format: ADD, reading difficulties, numeracy problems, learning disabilities, as well as related "symptoms" such as behaviour problems and resistance to change. However, it does not claim to cover each area in depth, rather to raise the issues and assist workplace personnel in identifying the root cause of problems and in developing strategies to address them (which may include referral). It is not intended as a diagnostic tool and there is no testing involved. There is no print material to accompany the package but other resources are suggested. The sound and graphics are excellent; overall this CD-ROM is very well produced.
Review provided by Thora Gislason and Joanne Labelle, Alpha Ontario.