The Asynchronus Distance Learning of Microsoft Excel in a Corporate Environment

As the hospitality industry transitions from the operational processes using hard copy to digital and web based processes, for the individual employee, the technological skills needed to maintain or improve efficiency are constantly changing. Breakdowns in the efficiency of employee output at the individual level can significantly inhibit the success of the business metrics and growth. This is particularity seen with administrative assistants and managers who have to utilize Microsoft Excel for daily job duties. A classroom-based training was tried and was unsuccessful in delivering Excel skills. A more engaging approach that incorporates learning technology, with asynchronous distance learning, and module-based training is needed. The purpose of this instructional design project was to increase the comfort and confidence of excel users, in an asynchronous manner. Users logged into an Excel training website and complete four Excel modules with the four most commonly used Excel functions in the industry. After viewing screen cast demos that utilize actual data from their environment, users were then required to complete an assignment and email it to the instructor who will return feedback via email or screen cast.

Due to the asynchronous nature of the design, Keller’s motivational model focusing on attention, relevance, confidence and satisfaction (ARCS) model was used in the development to maintain user engagement in the fast paced hospitality industry. The four modules, utilizing web based screen casts are meant to guide the user through the excel functions, also creating a library of resources for the user to access at anytime after the course.