Editor's Pick from ASTD '09

This year’s ASTD show was considerably smaller than last year. But, there was a motivated group in attendance.  A few products peaked our interest. 

Social Learning at Play in Pearson Online’s Critical Thinking Module.

At Pearson TalentLens, we previewed a new online module on Critical Thinking. It was a inventive module hosting video snippets, talk show video and scenarios. What made it stand out was the incorporation of a social learning portal. Each learner created a Facebook like page with peers, coaches and mentors. The postings and dialogue provided a creative method of leveraging a newer informal tool to enhance the learning experience.  Learn more and visit: www.pearson.com.

Innovative Authoring at PerformTech.

This company is known for its custom content development, but the authoring tool behind the scene was very inventive. It reminded one of a flow chart from computer programming days, but literally could map the learning path with a click of the button. Inserting questions, remediation steps was as simple as a drag and drop. If you haven’t seen it, call them for a demo or visit: www.performtech.com.

GoToTraining arrives from Citrix Online.

While Cisco Webex was noticeably absent at this annual event, a new entrant in the virtual training center has emerged- GoToTraining by Citrix Online.  With more than 50% of all training hours now being hosted via online , blended or virtual classrooms, GoToTraining has entered the market at a great time. They are in beta testing now, ( accepting companies) and hope to launch in August 2009. Keep your eyes out for them! Learn more by visiting: www.citrixonline.com .

---