Using Efficient Software Architecture for Computer-Based Training Programs to Promote International Development

Abstract

Many international agencies offer volunteer services to improve agricultural knowledge andinfrastructure in developing countries. Although effective, these efforts are severely constrained by limitedfunding and personnel, and can only address a fraction of current global educational needs. Computer-basedtraining programs, either in the form of CD-ROM-based or Internet-based incarnations, hold the promise ofremoving many of the obstacles that currently confront international volunteer efforts. The art of webprogramming has drastically accelerated in recent years, both in terms of capacity as well as complexity. Onereason for this is that advanced software has been developed to simplify and speed the web design process.Even so, several challenges can hinder computer-based delivery systems that are intended for internationaluse and need to be addressed. These include computer system requirements (hardware and software),translation into other languages, and ease of use. Ease of use, in fact, is the primary roadblock to anysuccessful implementation of a computer-based training system, and needs to be especially considered. Thus,a simple, efficient framework that can be used to meet educational goals, and that can overcome theaforementioned realization challenges, needs to be developed; one potential solution will be discussed in thispaper. A simple, generic, modular software architecture that can be used with any academic discipline hasbeen developed. This framework includes several distinct learning units. Each of these units is based onindigenous knowledge, but can be cross-referenced with state-of-the-art knowledge currently in use in the U.Sor other developed countries. This system holds the promise of bolstering current global volunteer efforts andcan augment their effectiveness.