OLATHE, Kan. 17 Nov. 2009. Garmin International Inc. announced that it expanded its eLearning computer based training program content for avionics products and will also soon offer training through an online portal. This is the first time Garmin has offered online training. Starting in late-November, customers can access online training for the GPSMAP 396, 496, 695/696, G1000 for VFR flight conditions, and G1000 for IFR flight conditions from any computer that has internet access. Unlike a CD-ROM that may become out-of-date, the online system will be periodically updated with the most recent software version available.
Garmin's eLearning programs are interactive, computer-based training programs that leverage the latest technology to help customers take advantage of the features of their Garmin aviation products. Customers will be able to view multi-media content, practice procedures on simulated devices, track progress, and generate reports and completion certificates for their enrolled courses. If used at a flight school or flight department, training managers will be able to monitor the performance of any learner affiliated with their school or flight department. The embedded messaging system allows learners and training managers to easily collaborate within the learning environment. The scalable nature of the system also allows for future expansion with a wide range of Garmin aviation products.
When a customer logs in to the online eLearning, they will be able to choose a topic of interest and watch a simulated multi-media demonstration of the task, such as creating a flight plan. Then, for key topics, a scenario-based, guided simulation system will help the user practice the task by following step-by-step, on-screen prompts. Lastly, the user can practice what they learned without the help prompts, to reinforce and assess their skills. The program offers remediation and also tracks the user's progress throughout the courseware.
Garmin continues to team with Pegasus Interactive, Inc. to provide customers with software. Pegasus Interactive has developed the internet application on the Adobe Flash platform, ensuring that training management content will available on more than 98 percent of internet-enabled computers, and potential future access on mobile devices.
The online eLearning programs for the GPSMAP 396, 496, 695/696, G1000 for VFR flight conditions, and G1000 for IFR flight conditions are expected to be available in late-November through fly.Garmin.com. A 90-day subscription to the GPSMAP handheld series training is available for $49.95, and a 90-day subscription to the G1000 training is $99.95.
Garmin will continue to offer selected eLearning training on CD-ROM for those customers who have limited internet access. Currently, Garmin offers training for the GPSMAP 695/696 on CD-ROM and it is available from authorized Garmin dealers or from Garmin.com for a suggested retail price of $99.95.
