CRI makes available selected training programs for delivery over the Internet. Utilizing what's called Asynchronous Computer Mediated Conferencing (CMC), participants can join others from around the country to explore learning topics, share ideas and collaborate on common problems facing their respective organizations or work situations.

The CMC format enables participants to carry on group discussions with an individual E-learning class or "cluster," which includes a maximum of 20-25 people. They can explore individual issues with one or two other "learning partners."
And, they can examine issues of specific organizational importance through "team dialogue" with other employees from their organization who are also participating in the same cluster.

Extensive research regarding computer mediated distance education suggests that the CMC format may actually produce better educational outcomes than experienced in the traditional classroom environment. As a training facilitator poses questions and posts a variety of learning resources on the web, participants raise their own issues; record experiences and share their insights. Since the format enables everyone's position to evolve through a threaded discussion process, reflection and critical thinking skills are developed and learning is enhanced.

CMC also provides several advantages for working adults who although they are committed to learning, find traditional classroom training difficult to incorporate into their busy schedules. The following lists a few of the benefits:

• Participants can attend class whenever they wish, day or night, seven days a week. They can join the system from anywhere (from home, from a motel while traveling, or at work,) and at any time.
• Each time a participant logs on, he or she will find that others have responded to their comments and brought up new aspects of topics that they may not have thought about.
• Learners can use conferencing to synthesize readings, activities, and experiences that they are involved in while reflecting upon how they apply to their own work situation.
• Since travel and motel accommodations are not necessary, the costs associated with E-learning are much lower than traditional training formats.
• The power of the Internet enables participants to bring in extensive resources to enhance their learning and illustrate points for others within their cluster, partner group, or organizational team. Articles, web sites, audio / video clips and a host of other resources are easily incorporated into the dialogue.
• Participants do not need to own a computer to participate. Since many libraries and community learning centers offer computer availability, participants can utilize these facilities at a time and place that fits their schedule.

Click here for information on how to participate in CRI programs utilizing the E-learning format.

Click here for Agri-Marketing / Live® Short-Course Topics and Internet Posting Schedule.