frequently asked questions

What is e-learning?
Distance learning, normally referred to as e-learning, is a formalized teaching and learning system specifically designed to be carried out remotely by using electronic communication. SilkWeb uses the ADDIE model of instructional design to develop online courses.

What is e-learning conversion?
In today's changing economic climate many organizations are looking for ways to deploy training with minimal cost. Having an instructor can be expensive, with costs including travel and salary. Additionally, instructor-led training (ILT) isn't always as efficient as it needs to be, considering the high student-to-teacher ratio. Many of our clients ask us to take their instructor-led training content, or even their text-based content, and convert it to an e-learning format. Conversion entails taking training content that was delivered in a text-based or instructor-led-based method, and converting it to an e-learning format. This could be computer-based training (CBT), including training on CD-Rom, on DVD, or on your company's network or LMS. Custom training has been created "from scratch" to address your specific training needs. Our skilled instructional design teamcan create custom courses that are web or computer-based. Alternatively, we can create a course that incorporates instructor-led, text and e-learning formats for a more blended learning approach.

What is a learning management system or LMS?
A learning management system is a software application or Web-based technology used to plan, implement, and assess a specific learning process. Typically, an LMS provides an instructor with a way to create and deliver content, monitor student participation, and assess student performance. SilkWeb's LMS does all of the above and we offer clients the ability to generate grade reports and access user information as well.

What is web-based training or WBT?
Web-based training is training content delivered over the Internet either with or without the use of a learning management system. What is the difference between WBT and computer-based training also known as CBT? Many people use CBT and WBT however they are not the same! The difference between the two is that the training delivered over the Internet is referred to as WBT, and the training delivered via an intranet or CD-Rom/DVD is called CBT.

What does "SCORM compliant" mean?
SCORM is an acronym for Sharable Content Object Reference Model. SCORM is a technical specification that dictates how e-learning content is created, delivered, and viewable by learners. Reusability of e-learning content across courses and LMSs without proprietary constraints is one of the chief benefits of adopting SCORM standardization. Another benefit of SCORM standardization is that SCORM conformant e-learning content can move seamlessly between multiple contexts, such as classroom-based and point-of-performance environments. This capability to improve the actual performance of people within their job environment is an invaluable goal.

What are the minimum computer system requirements needed to view SilkWeb's online courses?
SilkWeb recommends the following:

Windows®
Intel® Pentium® II 450MHz or faster processor (or equivalent)
128MB of RAM
Free Download of Flash Player 10

In addition to the above system requirements we recommend that your computer have speakers or headset, with high speed Internet connection, 1280x800 screen resolution and disable pop-up blockers or enable pop-ups from our site through your browser settings.

What type of Internet connection and browser are recommended?
SilkWeb recommends a high-speed Internet connection (T1, Broadband, orDSL) for all content being delivered via our Learning Management System (LMS). If high speed Internet is not available in your geographic location due to service limitations SilkWeb is able to offer unlimited use licenses that allow users to view courses hosted on your secure Intranet site or company learning management system. Please contact us for details.

Windows®
Platform Browser
Microsoft® Windows Vista® Internet Explorer 7, Firefox 3.x, Safari 3-4, Opera 9.
Microsoft Windows XP; Internet Explorer 7, Firefox 3.x, Safari 3-4, Opera 9.
Microsoft Windows Server® 2003 Internet Explorer 7, Firefox 3.x, Safari 3-4, Opera 9.
Microsoft Windows Server 2008; Internet Explorer 7, Firefox 3.x, Safari 3-4, Opera 9.
Microsoft Windows 2000 Internet Explorer 7, Firefox 3.x, Safari 3-4, Opera 9.
Microsoft Windows 7

Are SilkWeb's courses Apple/Mac friendly?
SilkWeb's courses are delivered through a learning management system (LMS) in Adobe Flash Format. Flash is compatible with PC and Mac computers. However, Flash is not available on certain electronic devices such as the Apple iPad.

My company has a firewall, will this prevent me from viewing my SilkWeb online course?
Probably not. Most company firewalls allow at least some access, albeit limited, to the Internet. However, you may want to confirm access by contacting us at info@silkwebconsulting.com and requesting a demo from our LMS. In addition, SilkWeb offers a 1-year unlimited user license for hosting courses on your company's Intranet or company LMS. Please contact us for more details.

How long does a learner have to complete a course?
Organizations that purchase course licenses have varying course completion dates based on the parameters set forth in the sales agreement. For more information please contact Dr. Michael Shaw or Laurel Silk at 623.465.5956 or via email at lsilk@silkwebconsulting.com or mshaw@silkwebconsulting.com