The Use of Interactive Computer Orientation

This being the Information Age and the age of the computer, you might think that some type of interactive computer orientation would be available to you. Well, it probably is. Many companies in business today will customize not only orientation but also training in the form of an interactive computer program. 

It seems like we are increasingly moving in the direction of computer interactivity and away from human contact. Computers—like videos— can be a great tool, and interactive computer-based courses have been shown to disseminate much information to the user however, as in the case of videos, I am becoming concerned about us getting too far removed from human contact. 

But let s step back a bit. K we use interactive computer programs, videos, overheads, and written material to assist in new hire orientation. 

Human involvement is the key. And not just any human involvement, but someone who knows the company well and can communicate effectively and accurately at all levels. If the new hire needs specialized training before he or she can start work, the same principles are recommended. 

let s recall the Hawthorne Effect. Consider taking the typical widget department worker and using this worker in an orientation video. In our scenario, the expert is an experienced worker who shares his expertise with others on videotape. 

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