Computer-Assisted Instruction in Industrial Relations Teaching

Abstract

The teaching of industrial relations in Australia is a fairly recent phenomenon, principally developing over the last twenty years. Consequently it is only recently that the 'academic infrastructure'—viable industrial relations departments, a range of literature, a choice of texts and journals—has developed to enable the subject to become an identifiable area of teaching. As a result it is not surprising that the use of computers in teaching industrial relations is not well developed when compared with other disciplines, such as economics, management and accounting where games, simulations and question testing banks are available. However, the use of computer-assisted instruction (CAI) is not confined to academic institutions: it has the potential to be a low-cost delivery system for training within other organizations. Employers, employer organizations and unions all engage in training and, therefore, all have a potential use for CAI. A number of government agencies are examining the use of computer- assisted instruction in training staff in, for example, occupational health and safety, and it has potential as a tool in professional development programmes. With the development of microcomputers the costs of using CAI are declining.