A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Bandwidth

The amount of data that can travel through a network. It is usually measured in kilobits per second (Kbps). For example, a Modem line often has a bandwidth of 56.6 Kbps. Some newer technology is providing higher bandwidth (broadband) Internet access via cable or telephone lines.

Behavior

There are three types of behavior exhibited by the individuals in a group: Task-oriented behaviors contribute to the accomplishment of the task component; Maintenance behaviors contribute to the human component, i.e., the growth of interpersonal relationships; Self-oriented behaviors do not advance either the task or human component—they are negative behaviors.

Benefit

In cost-benefit-analysis, the benefit is the total dollar value to the organization of any performance improvement as a result of the training intervention.

Bias

In a statistical context, a systematic error in a test score. In discussing test fairness, bias may refer to construct problems that differentially affect the performance of different groups of people. Such problems might include the choice of words, sentence structure, or sequence of questions.

Binary Choice Item

A non-performance test question that has only two possible choices for answers, e.g., True/False; Agree/Disagree.

Blended Learning

The combination of multiple instructional strategies and/or information sources to present information and applications, and to provide feedback. Examples include combining technology-based materials and traditional print materials; leader-led and self-paced instruction; online tutorial and coaching.

Blog

Stands for “Web log”. Short messages are posted onto the Web by individuals, thus providing an inexpensive form of knowledge sharing from experts or any individuals.

Bloom’s Taxonomy

In 1956 Benjamin Bloom, an educational psychologist, developed a taxonomy of educational objectives which first divides them into three domains: Affective , Psychomotor , and Cognitive . Then each domain is further broken down into different levels of learning, with higher levels considered more complex and closer to complete mastery of the subject matter.

Brainstorming

A discussion method with two stages. During the initial stage, creative thinking takes precedence and learners are encouraged to generate as many ideas as possible. The second stage consists of discussing and evaluating these ideas.

Branching Program

A form of self-paced instruction which presents different content to different learners based on their responses.

Breakout Room

(1) A physical room separate from the physical classroom used for small groups to meet and work together on an activity without disturbing others.

(2) A feature of a Web conferencing application that lets small groups of participants separate from the large group and work together in a virtual room. Communication can be via chat or separate teleconference line.

Bridging Activity

Any planned learning activity following formal training that moves learners closer to the performance objective. Bridging activities occur in the workplace.

Bridging Strategy

A set of activities to be completed at the end of formal training back on the job along with an assessment plan to determine when the performance objective has been met.

Broadband

Also called, high-speed Internet. Broadband allows users to access the Internet at significantly higher speeds than those available through dial-up Internet access services. Broadband is capable of supporting full-motion interactive video applications. It includes several high-speed transmission technologies such as:

• Digital Subscriber Line (DSL)
• Cable Modem
• Wireless
• Satellite
• Broadband over Powerline (BPL)

Business Needs

The essential goals and objectives for a unit, department or organization. They are usually expressed in operational terms and are measured by hard data such as total sales, gross margins, wastes as a percentage of output and customer satisfaction. The business needs of an organization drive the performance needs.

Robinson, D.G., and Robinson, J.C. Performance Consulting Moving Beyond Training. San Francisco, CA: Berrett-Koehler, Publishers, 1995.

Buzz Session