Defense Acquisition University
Test & Evaluation (TST 101)

Client Need:

Since 1996 the Defense Acquisition University (DAU) has been spearheading a massive curriculum modernization effort. The vast majority of these courses have been targeted for conversion to a distributed learning or "Virtual University" format. DAU contracted with PerformTech to apply course modernization techniques to their Test & Evaluation 101 course. A 36-hour course in the classroom, the online version of TST 101 was designed to span a total of 18 lessons with an average student seat time of 19 hours.

PerformTech Solution:

Early DAU courseware modernization efforts had used Authorware & HTML. While effective, this approach required a significant plug-in and a bandwidth intensive download. To address these constraints, and new instructional design requirements, an improved technical solution was sought.

An optimal solution would mitigate bandwidth requirements and at the same time prove an enhanced instructional environment. Based upon analysis of a range of developmental approaches, PerformTech selected Flash as the best development environment. Flash makes use of vector-based graphics, versus bit-mapped graphics for generating screen elements. As a result, Flash-based courseware has file sizes that are typically 80-90% smaller than typical bit-mapped approaches.

The course provides rich graphics, dynamic animations, extensive student interactions, and robust exercises and simulations. This course has received critical acclaim from the DAU community and from organizations such as ASTD and the Corporate University Xchange at national conference presentations.